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Artisans from Para

Pará is Brazil's second largest state, bisected by the equator and totally integrated into the Amazon. Rich in natural resources, exotic fauna and exuberant flora, Pará's culture reveals its Native American and Portuguese influence. Its folklore, foods, and crafts exhibit strong tribal characteristics.

Pará’s island of Marajó is best known for a particular style of ceramics. The oldest examples of ceramic art date from 980 B.C. Ceramic production provides Marajó's most significant export, although other noteworthy art forms rank among the its diverse handicrafts.

Today, the mestizo marajoara of mixed race (Native American and Portuguese heritage) is the predominant ethnicity in Marajó. Marajó’s people also assimilated into their culture the values and traditions of African slaves. This diverse blend of cultures resulted in a rich culture with unique artistic traditions.

With their strong cultural heritage, the Artisans of Pará recreate the beauty of Marajó island’s ancient art in ceramic and other ornamental and symbolic pieces.