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View Video of Bonfire Method
Cobre--Copper in Spanish--has been made by the Purepecha Indians of Central Mexico since pre-Columbian times. When the Europeans arrived in the 16th century, they found the Purepecha making domestic implements and weapons from copper found in local, above-ground mines. Father Vasco de Quiroga introduced a few refinements; however, little has changed in how the copper is worked and finished. Because the copper mines have long been closed, today the smiths gather and melt discarded copper for use in their workshops.
During the bonfire method, coppersmiths take the reclaimed copper and patiently heat and hammer it until the metal is "raised"--meaning the bowl or vase walls are formed. The smith then takes a special hammer to finish the piece. Depending upon the amount of salt in the air and how often the copper piece is handled, the metal will oxidize and the finish becomes matte, as the color darkens to deep browns and reds.
Frequently Asked Questions about Copper
Cobre is a proud member of the Fair Trade Federation. We currently work with 7 different workshops that employ 1 to 7 artisans. Most of the people in the workshops are related, fathers, sons, uncles, cousins. Each workshop has its own style. One shop makes only small pieces, maximum 3" high, while another prefers to work in organic forms; pears, apples, gourds, squashes. Ramon's work is extremely fine with thin walls, while Antonio's work is thick-walled and monumental. Each piece is proudly signed by its creator.
Cobre Hand-Hammered Copper
Susan Hebert Imports
1231 NW Hoyt Street
Space #B-5
Portland, OR 97209
