Tracunhaém and Its Rich Clay Handicraft Tradition

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Tracunhaém: The capital of ceramics in Pernambuco

Tracunhaém is a municipality in the state of Pernambuco, known for its rich clay handicrafts, especially its handmade ceramics.

Located in the Agreste region of the state, the town has a strong tradition of handicraft production that goes back several generations.

Figuras de ceramica - Tracunhaém PE — Clay figures – Tracunhaém PE

Video – Tracunhaém is the “Capital of Ceramics

Tracunhaém é a “Capital do Artesanato em Cerâmica”

Artesanato de Tracunhaém04:40

1. Characteristics of Tracunhaém handicrafts

1.1 Techniques and processes

Hand modelling: The artisans of Tracunhaém use traditional hand modelling techniques to create their pieces. The clay is shaped by hand without the use of industrial moulds.
Firing in traditional kilns: The pieces are fired in wood-fired kilns, giving the ceramics a rustic and characteristic finish.

1.2 Types of pieces

Figures and Statuettes: Figures of saints, animals and folklore characters are common, as are representations of local culture.
Utilitarian and decorative: Utility items such as vases, pots and bowls are also produced.

1.3 Decoration and design

Painting and engraving: Pieces are often decorated with colourful paintings and intricate designs, reflecting the rich cultural and artistic tradition of the region.
Regional Themes: Many of the designs and shapes incorporate elements of local culture, such as scenes from everyday life and symbols from nature.

1.4 Cultural and economic impact

Preservation of Tradition: Tracunhaém’s pottery is an important way of preserving and passing on local culture and traditions.
Tourism and Economy: Ceramic production is an important source of income for many residents and attracts tourists interested in buying authentic pieces and learning about the craft process.

1.5 Visits and markets

Fairs and Exhibitions: Tracunhaém often holds fairs and events where artisans can exhibit and sell their creations, promoting local handicrafts.
Shops and studios: There are several shops and studios in the city where visitors can see and buy ceramics directly from the artisans.

2. Tracunhaém: The city of pottery

Nearly 50 percent of the population survives, directly or indirectly, by transforming clay into utilitarian objects or works of art. The anonymous workers work in the city’s potteries or are famous artisans, some even recognised outside Brazil.

The city has been awarded the title of “Capital of Ceramic Crafts” by the Legislative Assembly of Pernambuco, and stands out for its production of saints, animals and utilitarian pieces, using clay as the raw material.

The figurative and decorative art of clay is a trademark of Tracunhaém, creating figures inspired by popular culture and religious beliefs.

In addition, the cultural heritage is passed down from generation to generation, with many artisans learning the craft from childhood.

Figuras de barro de Tracunhaém — Clay figures from Tracunhaém

3. Clay Crafts: A cultural practice

Clay art is an ancient activity, dating back more than 3,000 years before Christ, and is a representative practice of Brazilian popular culture, inherited from the Indians.

The Indians, for example, created toys and household items such as bowls and troughs, using their creativity and inspiration from nature.

Clay artisans, known as anonymous artists, are a vital force in the production of utilitarian and ornamental ceramics throughout Brazil, especially in Pernambuco.

Cities such as Caruaru and Goiana also excel in this practice, with Caruaru being the home of the famous Mestre Vitalino.

artesanato do nordeste do Brasil — Handicrafts from the Northeast of Brazil

4. The art of clay modelling

Clay modelling is a symbolic and playful expression that dates back to the dawn of mankind. Throughout history, ceramics have evolved with the improvement of techniques and the addition of natural pigments, expanding the artistic possibilities.

The artists of Tracunhaém use clay as their main raw material, creating pieces that reflect local life and culture.

Clay is a generic term that includes different mixtures of clays, each with different characteristics.

5. How to model clay

Arte de Modelar o Barro ou Argila em Tracunhaém

Working with clay is an accessible and creative practice. Here are some basic techniques for modelling it:

5.1 Forming clay with your hands

Prepare the clay: Make sure the clay is soft and free of bubbles.
Classic method: Form the clay with your fingers to create simple shapes.
Coil technique: Use small rolls of clay to make objects.
Cut the clay into flat shapes to make boxes or other objects.
Use an extruder: Make “threads” or “snakes” with a clay extruder.

Moldando a argila com as mãos — Moulding clay with your hands

5.2 Using the wheel

Prepare the lathe: Set up the equipment to shape the clay.
Centre the clay: Place the clay in the centre of the wheel and adjust as necessary.
Mold the piece: Use your hands to shape the clay into the desired form.

Argila - Usando a roda de oleiro — Clay – using the potter’s wheel

Coloque a argila na roda de oleiro — Placing the clay on the wheel

Tire a argila do torno. — Taking the clay from the lathe.

Tracunhaém is the “capital of ceramics”.

Pernambuco Tourist Guide

Written by Willy Sievert

Editor of Bahia.ws since its founding in 2009. Based in Salvador, he travels frequently across the Northeast and all of Brazil to keep the guides up to date. Learn more about Willy Sievert →

Published on 31/05/2018 · Updated on 01/06/2025