Black engraved ceramic owl signed Mexico

Brown and black ceramic owl, engraved and stamped Mexico, typical of the work of artisans from Oaxaca in the 1960s to 1980s. Hand-shaped from local clay and then polished before firing, it features the beautiful deep and slightly metallic sheen characteristic of barro negro. Barro negro is made from local clay fired in limited-draft kilns, giving it this deep black with a slight metallic sheen. The artisans then polish the surface before firing using a quartz stone to achieve this distinctive shine. The designs are often stylised: owls, doves, fish, or cats, hand-engraved with fine incisions and matte areas contrasting with the shiny background. In excellent vintage condition, with patina from time and signs of wear on the edges of the head, base of the feet, and beak (see photos). Height 17 cm, length 16 cm, width 10 cm. Sculptural and poetic, perfect in a bohemian chic or organic brutalist setting.