Living History in Black Clay Tableware
The Chamba Collection is a truly unique line of contemporary tableware, telling the story of a rare material and a process found only in a small village in the heart of Colombia. Each piece embodies living history, shaped by master artisans who transform the rich black soil of their region into one-of-a-kind creations.
The Allure of Natural Black Clay
Crafted from the rare black clay exclusive to La Chamba, Colombia—found nowhere else in the world—the Chamba Collection pieces are meticulously shaped by skilled local artisans. Each piece undergoes a unique firing process and hand burnishing, resulting in a deep, natural black hue. The clay’s innate beauty shines through, unadorned by glaze.
A Heritage of Craftsmanship
Pottery-making in La Chamba has been a cornerstone of the community for over 700 years, dating back to the pre-Hispanic native tribes. Today, around 300 families continue this time-honored tradition, creating exquisite black clay pieces using materials sourced directly from their surroundings.
Community & Craft: The Role of Las Patronas
What makes La Chamba truly special is its strong sense of community. Families support each other through every step of the pottery-making process, with women—'Las Patronas'—at the heart of this vibrant community. These inspiring women shape the clay with their skilled hands, manage production, and coordinate the community. Their leadership and creativity are the lifeblood of La Chamba, earning them immense respect and admiration.
The Betancourt Family Tradition
Designed in our Barcelona studio and handcrafted in collaboration with the Betancourt family, the Chamba Collection continues a tradition that spans countless generations. When asked about their lineage, Liliana humbly replies: "My grandmother, like hers before, and hers before her, sculpted with black clay." This unbroken chain of craftsmanship is a testament to their enduring commitment to heritage.
