Technology and symbolic representation of the ceramic “Torito de Pucará”

Abstract

The research work was carried out in the district of Pucará, a Quechua area of the Puno highlands, heir to an ancient culture where there are associations of artisans and independent artisans registered with the Ministry of Foreign Trade and Tourism - MINCETUR dedicated to the production of clay-based ceramics in various lines. The objective of the research was to describe and explain the process of technological change and symbolic representation, both exoteric and esoteric in the manufacture of ceramics called the "Torito de Pucará", promoted by the "FONDOEMPLEO" program of the district municipality of Pucará. 32 people were sampled, including ceramists: experts in the elaboration of the torito, potters of diverse lines and non-potters from the rural and urban areas. The methodology applied was quali-quantitative and the survey-questionnaire technique allowed us to detail, understand and explain the socio-cultural phenomena. The result of the research allowed us to identify the technological evolution that the "Torito de Pucará" has undergone in the more stylized form, bright colors and quality in the artistic finish made for commercial and decorative purposes; as well as the perceptions of ceramists and non-ceramists in the gradual loss of symbolic representations on the use and original function of the torito formerly known as Qonopas or Illas- which is not constituted as a vital element in Andean rituals.