Preserving the Legacy: Oaxacan Artisans Uphold the Ancient Art of Goldsmithing

Oaxacan artisans are keeping the ancient goldsmith technique alive, as reported by The Observatorial. The process of filigree, which involves working with fine threads of gold or silver to create intricate designs, has not changed much over time and is very laborious. The work of Mixtec artisans who produced work in stone, wood, and metal was well regarded throughout ancient Mesoamerica.

In addition to goldsmithing, Oaxacan artisans also create beautiful pieces of clay, textiles, wood, metal, skins, and other materials, forming a rich and varied tradition of handicrafts.

Artisans in Mexico learn their craft through traditional techniques passed down from generation to generation. Other artisanal techniques in Mexico include working with wood to create wooden whisk stirrers, called “molinillo’s” for chocolate drinks or with stone to create mortar and pestles for the famous “molcajetes” used to prepare traditional salsas and guacamole.
Jewelry is another traditional craft in Mexico, made out of gold, silver, bronze, and copper. Artisans employ different techniques during the production process, and during the Pre-Hispanic era, it represented social status. It was common to incorporate human bones, jade, and shells.

Overall, traditional crafts in Mexico are not static emblems of tradition but are living art forms that evolve and change through their encounters with contemporary design, as reported by The New York Times.