La Chamba Pottery: Some of the World's Oldest Cookware
Organically Handmade in Colombia
In the same manner and method that has been used for centuries, La Chamba Pottery is handmade in Colombia in the village of La Chamba that sits on the Magdalena River. Due to nearby volcanic activity from the Ruiz Volcano, the soil in this village is full of micaceous material. Once the clay is shaped into pots/bowls and then fired, the micaceous makeup of the clay creates a wonderful and even heating surface.
The firing process consists of placing already molded pots into an extremely hot kiln. When the kiln reaches its top temperature, the white-hot pots are pulled out and then smothered with dry leaves. Initially crafted with a deep red clay, the chemical reaction caused by the carbon in the leaves coming into contact with the white-hot clay causes the pots to turn a deep black color. Thus, the entire production process is completely organic.
This unique process of naturally crafting pottery is not only interesting but also extremely functional. These pots, dishes and bowls are stove, oven, grill, microwave, refrigerator and dishwasher safe! Allowing for succulent and aromatic creations, this line of pottery is sure not to disappoint.
Please contact us for more information or to order your own set of La Chamba Pottery!
Photography © Janie Viehman