Traditional Potters In Afghanistan Face An Uncertain Future

In a dusty and hot area of Kandahar, Nazar Mohammad creates a clay pot using the same traditional technique as his ancestors. He is one of the many craftsmen hoping to keep Afghanistan's rich artistic heritage of Kolali pottery -- known for its unique blue and green glazes -- alive for future generations.

Highly valued for its aesthetic appeal and cultural significance, Kolali pottery is sought after as decorative items or collectibles.

Following in his father's footsteps is Hazrat-ullah, who scoops the special clay that originated in the Dand area of Kandahar. The potters' methods and techniques have changed very little since antiquity. First, the potters gather clay from natural deposits and then process it by removing impurities like rocks and organic matter before it is kneaded and mixed with water to achieve a workable consistency.

Potters then shape the clay with the help of a pottery wheel. Once the desired form is achieved, the clay will be left to dry while still being malleable enough for further treatment.

Ancient potters employed various methods to decorate their earthenware including techniques such as carving, painting, incising, or applying slip (a liquid clay mixture) to add color and texture.

 

After the initial drying process, the pieces are fired to harden them before additional decoration and finishing touches are applied. However, with potters often burning rubber such as tires and plastic to heat the kilns, they regularly draw the ire of locals, who must live with the acrid smells.

Mohammad is hoping the Taliban municipality will assign designated work areas for potters like him and his son so that they can continue in the family business.

Though inexpensive modern crockery has largely replaced traditional pieces, many people still favor handmade clay pot dishware. Others use them as decorative pieces in their homes.

Afghanistan's potters hope their country's rich cultural legacy will continue to be passed on from one generation to the next.