Barro: A Fusion of Tradition and Modernity

Caterina Moretti's Award-Winning Lamp Marries Ancestral Techniques with Contemporary Design

Barro, which translates to 'clay' in Spanish, is a pendant lamp that draws its inspiration from the city of Oaxaca. The lamp is a tribute to the city's beauty, culture, art, and tradition. The use of Barro Negro, a type of black clay admired worldwide for its unique preparation and firing method, adds a touch of authenticity to the design. The lamp's design also incorporates the work of a local glass blower, marrying two distinct materials and techniques.

What sets Barro apart from other designs is its unique blend of ancestral traditions and contemporary design. The lamp is an exploration of the limits of traditional materials and techniques, bringing the essence of clay into a modern setting. The clean lines of the cylindrical clay structure are encased by a blown glass dome, which filters the light to create a soft, warm glow. The lamp is available in two versions: red with a transparent dome and charcoal with a smoke gray dome.

The creation of Barro is a testament to the mastery of traditional techniques. The clay structure is hand-burnished and fired using a special two-vent kiln process. This process, known as the reduction of atmospheres, involves shutting down the vents at a precise moment to reduce oxygen intake, triggering a chemical reaction that produces the clay's deep black color. The outer part of the lamp is a blown-glass shade made by a local craftsman, which surrounds the clay structure and softens the light.

The lamp's dimensions are 165 mm in diameter and 350 mm in height. Despite its seemingly simple design, Barro is a product of extensive research and empirical knowledge. Both components of the lamp are made by experts in their respective trades, with methods perfected over centuries. The creation of Barro was a challenge, as it involved marrying two distinct materials and techniques. However, the end result is a testament to the beauty of traditional craftsmanship meeting modern design.

Barro's design has been recognized with a Silver A' Lighting Products and Fixtures Design Award in 2023. This prestigious award is given to designs that demonstrate outstanding expertise and innovation. Barro, with its blend of tradition and modernity, is indeed a deserving recipient of this accolade.