Apiaí’s popular Brazilian ceramics: cultural heritage preservation through a technical approach

Abstract

The present study aims to relate clays’ technical aspects to the traditional popular ceramics manufacture carried out for generations by the Association of Artisans of Apiaí artisans in Vale do Ribeira (Brazil). The Vale do Ribeira is considered a cultural and natural World Heritage site by UNESCO. The clays’ chemical-mineralogical, technological, and ceramic properties were important in defining the aesthetic characteristics of artistic work and in selecting of a specific execution method. The methodology comprises extensive bibliographic research; field visits for data and clay samples collection to survey their characteristics in the laboratory, and the comparison of results. Adequacy between experimentation and technical knowledge was proven. This study is also expected to help disseminate and enhance Apiaí’s artistic, cultural, and historical heritage and encourage the development of public policies for cultural preservation in Vale do Ribeira.