Hand Forged Copper
by Roberto Castro
Santa Clara del Cobre, Michoacán
Ht. 11" x W. 7" x D. 7"
Utilitarian pots and sinks have been crafted in the town of Santa Clara del Cobre, Michoacán, near old copper mines, for 500 years. In 1966, an American artist, James Metcalf and his wife, Mexican artist Ana Pellicer, began working with the coppersmiths, teaching them new techniques and decorative designs. Roberto Castro has won many awards for his work and continues to develop beautiful new designs. The copper mines near Santa Clara have long since given out, and the artists now use scrap copper for their works. Since the copper in Roberto's pieces is left in its natural state, it requires minimal care. The patina protects the surface from oxidation, so there is no need to polish. If the piece gets dirty, it can be washed with soap and water.