Ceramic candleholder · Michoacán · Forest green

An artful candleholder in rich forest green glaze, inspired by the agave plant with its radiating pointed leaves. Each petal-like element is hand-formed with intricate linear detailing, while delicate appliqué work adorns the base. This striking piece brings the spirit of Mexico's iconic desert plant to the table, holding a single taper candle at its centre.

The Craft. These candleholders are masterfully made using the pastillaje and vidriado techniques, where the skilled artisan moulds small pieces of clay with his fingertips and applies them one by one. The painstaking process can take weeks to complete, as each individual clay element must be hand-formed and carefully attached before high-temperature firing creates the glass-like appearance. The result is a tactile surface that transforms candlelight into a ceremonial experience, with the glossy glaze amplifying every ridge and curve.

The Heritage. The richness of local crafts in the Purépecha-inhabited area of southwestern Mexico, now known as Michoacán, has been a source of pride since pre-Hispanic times, encouraging a way of living and perpetuating indigenous culture. New techniques such as glazing and high-firing kilns were introduced by the Spaniards in the 16th century, helping indigenous communities modernise their craft while maintaining ancestral knowledge. The agave motif honours the deep connection between the people and the landscape of Mexico.

The Maker. A master artisan of Purépecha descent, Pedro Hernández Carlos lives and works in the famous pottery town of San José de Gracia in Michoacán. Set on perpetuating his family traditions and values, Pedro creates incessantly in his workshop together with his wife Isabel, taking inspiration from the natural world surrounding him. He is the recipient of numerous prizes and in 2008, he co-founded Tsitski Museo Comunitario, located at his home.