Maceta

The practice of making clay pots and vases with facial depictions is archaeologically proven in Mexico and dates back to pre-Columbian times. Ceramic objects with human faces or mask-like depictions were found particularly in the Olmec, Zapotec and Maya cultures. These anthropomorphic decorations usually had ritual, social or symbolic functions and often served as status symbols or grave goods.

Locally available clay is used to produce these ceramics, which is kneaded and shaped into the desired structure. The facial representations are worked directly into the surface either by plastic modeling or by scratching techniques. The shaping follows stylistic conventions that vary depending on the region and era. After modeling, the ceramics are fired at temperatures between 800 and 1000 °C to harden them.

Facial motifs on ceramics in Mesoamerican cultures often have a symbolic meaning linked to religious and social structures. These depictions could symbolize ancestral figures, deities or rulers and were used in domestic, ceremonial and funerary contexts.

The tradition of pottery with facial representations has been preserved to the present day, especially in Oaxaca, with modern forms based on traditional techniques and motifs.