Description
Artisan reproduction of original Argaric pottery, using the same raw material as in the Argaric period to achieve the most similar textures and finishes to the originals. The external finish is done by smoothing the walls and burnishing, creating a soft touch and shininess to the eye.
The handcrafted production of the pottery generates different colours for each piece, making them unique. The firing is carried out with vegetable elements such as branches, leaves, fruit shells, etc. Almonds shells are used for reduction firing in order to get the dark colouration of the ceramic.
Totana is prolific in potter families. The Hernández families seem to carry a vocation for the profession in their genes, and whoever knows them will immediately detect that it is not an exaggeration. Its history also shares the same product redirection as other potter families in the town in response to industrialization, making ornamental and gardening elements.
But the economic crisis at the beginning of this century has brought another change. Nowadays, the Hernández potters include the realization of didactic workshops, the reproduction of archaeological pieces and guided tours to their facilities, where they explain the history of their pottery business in the local context.
Their interest in the prehistoric past in the territory of present-day Totana is genuine and undeniable. Proof of this is that this family created a didactic recreation of an “Argaric house” in their workshop. Moreover, when the Autonomous University of Barcelona built a replica of an Argaric dwelling at La Bastida, with a double objective, didactic and experimental archaeology, the Hernández contributed with several of the reproductions of vessels to complete the household items. In recent times, the Hernández have been striving to replicate the manufacturing and firing techniques of the large form 4 urns used of El Argar from 4000 years ago. They are also experimenting to achieve the shine of the burnished and characteristic dark metallic colour of the exquisite pieces primarily found in the grave goods of the Argaric tombs.
Hernández Alfareros (previously known as Romero & Hernández potters)
Carretera nacional 340, kilómetro 620
30850 TOTANA
MURCIA
Between the towns of Totana and Alhama
Phone numbers. 687407908 facilities
687407909-646296252 (whatsapp)
alfareriaryh@hotmail.com
To see the map, click here.
