Santa Maria Atzompa, Mexico
Rufina
A fifth-generation ceramist from Santa Maria Atzompa, Rufina Ruíz López has dedicated her life to preserving one of Oaxaca’s oldest pottery traditions. Her small-batch creations—ranging from candle holders and clay vessels to her signature incense burners—are deeply tied to the land and her ancestral heritage. “I knew what I was going to do even before I was born,” Rufina says. “Artisans are made in the womb.”
Working entirely by hand, Rufina digs, mixes, shapes, and fires her own clay, each step guided by the wisdom passed down through generations. Her deep connection to the earth and devotion to her community have helped revive ancient techniques that were once on the verge of being lost. Through her leadership and generosity, Rufina continues to empower other women and young artisans, ensuring that the story of Atzompa pottery endures—rooted in culture, family, and the enduring magic of Oaxacan clay.
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Customer reviews
5" Oaxacan Clay Footed Bowl
- jehan c.Verified BuyerReviewing5" Oaxacan Clay Footed BowlRated 5 out of 5 starsSuper cute!
Cute and sturdy, well made. Pleasant to the touch. I was worried the patterning would look like mold but it's better IRL.
OObakki4 months agoHi Jehan,
Thank you so much for sharing this — we’re so happy to hear you’re enjoying the bowl. The subtle variations in tone and texture are part of its handmade nature, shaped by artisans in Oaxaca using natural clay. Each piece carries its own character, and we’re glad it feels even better in person.
Warmly,
– Obakki Team - clevelandReviewing5" Oaxacan Clay Footed BowlRated 5 out of 5 stars5 Stars
Love it
OObakki4 months agoSo happy to hear this—thank you for the kind review.
– Obakki Team
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