Amatenango, Chiapas, Mexico
JUANA GÓMEZ RAMÍREZ
Taught by her mother in the pottery-rich village of Amatenango, Juana Gómez Ramírez made her first clay jaguar at the age of twelve. The jaguar holds deep meaning in Mayan culture, symbolizing power, transformation, and protection. “For our ancestors, the white jaguar represented day, and the black one represented night,” Juana says. “I feel their energy every time I work on their shapes.”
Rooted in ancestral practice, Juana kneads, shapes, and fires each piece entirely by hand, polishing them with river stones and painting them with natural dyes. Her lifelike clay jaguars—symbols of both heritage and spirit—have earned her recognition far beyond Chiapas. Today, she leads a collective of local artisans, preserving the clay traditions of her ancestors while supporting her community. Through every piece, Juana continues to honor the sacred bond between craft, culture, and the untamed soul of the jaguar.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Are Obakki products ethically made?
Yes, all Obakki products are crafted in partnership with artisans around the world, adhering to fair trade principles and supporting sustainable practices. We prioritize ethical sourcing and work closely with our artisan communities to ensure fair wages and respectful working conditions.
How do I care for my Obakki products?
Each of these cushion covers is handwoven by a collective of over 50 women artisans in Morocco’s High Atlas Mountains using wool from the rare Siroua sheep. To maintain their quality, we recommend following the specific care instructions provided with your purchase. Generally, gentle cleaning methods and proper storage will help preserve the beauty and longevity of your items.
Where are Obakki products made?
Our products are handcrafted by skilled artisans from various regions around the globe, including Africa, Asia, Europe, and the Americas. We celebrate the rich cultural heritage and traditional techniques of each community, bringing their unique creations to your home.
What materials are used in Obakki products?
We use locally sourced, sustainable materials that reflect the natural resources and traditions of our artisan partners' regions. This includes natural fibers, ethically sourced woods, and other eco-friendly materials, ensuring each piece is both beautiful and responsibly made.
Does Obakki offer customization or special orders?
At Obakki, we offer customization on all of our Made to Order (MTO) pieces to bring your vision to life. Special orders are considered on a case-by-case basis, depending on quantity and the nature of the request. For customization inquiries or special orders, please reach out to our customer service team at shop@obakki.com. We will do our best to accommodate your needs in collaboration with our artisans.
What if my Obakki product has slight variations?
Slight variations in color, size, or finish are natural characteristics of handcrafted items and are a testament to their authenticity. These unique differences highlight the individual craftsmanship of each piece, making your Obakki product truly one-of-a-kind.
Does Obakki ship internationally?
Yes, we are pleased to offer international shipping to bring our artisan-made products to customers worldwide. Shipping rates and delivery times may vary depending on your location. For detailed information, please refer to our shipping policy or contact our customer service team.
What is Obakki's return policy?
We want you to be completely satisfied with your Obakki purchase. If for any reason you are not, we accept returns within 30 days of receipt for a refund or exchange, provided the item is in its original condition. Please visit our returns and exchanges page for detailed instructions and to initiate a return.