Santa María Atzompa’s Green Glazed Pottery Faces Health Concerns

The town of Santa María Atzompa, located near Monte Albán in Oaxaca, is renowned for its distinctive green‑glazed pottery, a tradition that dates back to the colonial era. Artisans shape red clay, fire the pieces, then dip them in a lead‑based glaze that gives the characteristic emerald hue after a second firing. Recent studies have shown that the lead oxide in the glaze poses health risks to both the makers and users of the wares. In response, several workshops have adopted new, non‑toxic glaze formulas that preserve the vivid green colour while eliminating the danger.

The community continues to produce a wide range of items—from cups and plates to decorative figures—using both the historic technique and the safer alternatives, maintaining its cultural identity and appeal to visitors.