Mata Ortiz pottery is popular for many reasons, but one of the outstanding features of Mata Ortiz pottery is the remarkably high quality of the finished work. Each piece is individually formed and painted by hand. The pottery is extremely thin-walled, and highly symmetric. The incredibly fine detail of the brushwork is hard to believe and a credit to the artisans at Mata Ortiz. Mata Ortiz is actually the name of a village near Casas Grandes where the ancient Paquime Indian culture thrived.

The pottery made now days in the area is the result of Juan Quesada pottery. Painted pottery by Juan Quesada became very popular in the 70's as a renassance of the antique pottery designs found on pot shards exposed by farming. Taking on an art form of its own, Mata Ortiz pottery truely is art on pottery. Also called Casas Grandes Pottery or Paquime pottery, the potters of Mata Ortiz have made a worldwide impression on collectors. Pieces by, now famous potters and painters command prices in the thousands making Mata Ortiz pottery very valuable. But the unknown artist of the area create fine pieces for enthusiasts at very affordable prices.

Investing in Mata Ortiz helps the pueblo who's only real ecomomy is pottery making. Much of the allure of buying from unknown artists is that no one knows for sure who will emerge as the new leaders in the craft. Even after thirty years of growth, Mata Ortiz is still very much a ground floor opportunity. Perfect for southwest style or western decor. Mata Ortiz pottery is equally at home in contemporary, traditional or rustic setting.