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Preliminary identification

Oaxacan Barro Negro Incised Vase by Nico Lopez

Photo reference

2 uploaded photos

Overview

A hand-burnished 'Barro Negro' (black clay) vase featuring a flared rim and a globular body decorated with incised geometric patterns. This piece is signed on the base by Nico Lopez, a recognized artisan from the world-famous pottery village of San Bartolo Coyotepec.

Story

San Bartolo Coyotepec is the only place on Earth where this unique 'Barro Negro' clay is found. This vase was hand-burnished with a quartz stone to create its signature metallic, graphite-like glow before being fired in a pit.

Maker / Origin

Nico Lopez (Nico Luis Lopez Zarate) is a respected artisan from a lineage of Oaxacan potters. He is known for his mastery of the 'Barro Negro' tradition, specializing in both intricate incised geometric designs and 'luminary' cutout pieces that highlight the clay's natural luster.

Condition & Value

The vase appears to be in good vintage condition with a deep, consistent luster. There are minor surface scuffs near the base, which is typical for this delicate unglazed finish. These small marks are expected and do not significantly detract from the value.

Full Research

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Sold comps, value drivers, and venue guidance pulled from recent auction results.

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Market Analysis

Comparable demand stays strongest where maker, originality, and venue confidence line up. Broader examples still trade, but the range tightens quickly when provenance, condition, or selling lane fit is missing.

Value Drivers

  • ▲ Strong maker attribution with credible period details
  • ▲ Better-than-average condition for the category
  • ▲ Broader demand rises when presentation and finish feel intact

Concerns

  • ▼ Decorative-only demand limits the ceiling
  • ▼ Surface wear or missing provenance can compress the range fast
  • ▼ Regional sale lanes often underperform specialist venues

Best Venue

Specialty auction or a focused dealer with buyers already in this lane.

Comparable Sales

5 comps

Regional auction

· Jun 2024

Signed example with light edge wear and original frame.

$1,280

SOLD

Dealer archive

· Mar 2024

Comparable format with stronger provenance and cleaner surface.

$1,450

SOLD

Marketplace sale

· Jan 2024

Smaller related piece with visible craquelure and trimmed margins.

$980

SOLD

Estate platform

· Oct 2023

Period match with softer condition and weaker subject matter.

$1,150

SOLD

Auction result

· Aug 2023

Close market lane comp with similar material and presentation.

$1,375

SOLD