6-Piece Villager Folk Art Set from Metepec, Mexico - 13.5" H X 5" Diam. (Each)

The creation of pottery in Metepec maintains many of its traditional techniques which are passed down in pottery-making families known for distinctive design, ornamentation and manufacture. These figurines were made by members of the Soteno Family as noted by the different facial expressions on the figures. They follow the traditions of their matriarch, Modesta Fernández, who began to experiment with decorative pieces in the first half of the 20th century.

The set is in very good condition and was collected in Mexico during the 1960s. The villagers (each over 1' tall) include a female with a harvested crop in her backpack, two women with lambs on their shoulders, a male with a large sombrero, a male flower vendor, and a male holding a harvested crop.

The bottom of one of the figurines says Mancera Arte de Mexico which is the label from a fine art retail store. Soteno Family artists have garnered acclaim both at home and abroad, and their work is included in museum collections in Mexico, the United States, Canada, Europe and South Africa. This ensemble would be a fun addition to any public or private folk art collection. 

Place of Origin: Metepec, Mexico 

Date of Manufacture: 1960s

Condition: Very Good 

Wear: Female figurine (far left with yellow hat in composite photo) has losses to a green leaf which is part of the harvested crop in her backpack. Female (fourth from the left in composite photo) has a lamb on her shoulder with losses to its ears. All pieces were painted with aniline dye and should not be displayed near direct sunlight to avoid fading. Please refer to pictures.

Dimensions: 

Each Piece (Average Dimensions):

13.5 in. H X 5 in. Diam. (Body), 4 in. Diam. (Base) 

6 separate pieces, all similar in size

Display Space:

Minimum 2 - 3 ft. wide display area recommended. 

Reference: 

The Spirit of Folk Art, Henry Glassie 

Mexico News Daily, Tree of Life Sculptures by Artisan Tiburcio Soteno put Metepec on the map by Leigh Thelmadatter 

MexConnect, Mexico family roots: the Soteno Trees of Life

The British Museum 

Textile Museum of Canada & Gardiner Museum

Explore more Mexican Pottery at Our Taste Design.