Mata Ortiz pottery first began to appear in galleries and shops throughout the American southwest in the late 1970s. Today, pottery from this north central region of Mexico is regarded as some of the finest in the world and can be found in permanent museums and private collections across the United States. Without use of a potter's wheel, a coil or "doughnut" of clay is pinched into a perfectly symmetrical and thin-walled creation. The intricately delicate painting is done with human-hair brushes, at times containing a single strand of hair. Paints are created from natural pigments found in local plants and ground minerals. Firing is carried out in the ancient outdoor method using open fire. River Coyote is pleased to offer this exquisite pottery by some of the finest Mata Ortiz artists.