Bird Pio - Swirly Mini Ceramic Plant Pot - Assorted

A petite pot for lovely succulents and tiny plants! This original bird planter is made by hand by clay artist Bernardino in Arequipa, Peru. He enjoys mixing and matching colors to create distinctive and one-of-a-kind swirls with a technique similar to Japanese water marbling. It has a drainage hole. Handmade exclusively for Lucuma Designs. Gift box included.Price is for one pot.Color patterns are one-of-a-kind and vary.

Bernardino Arce, master ceramist

Born into a family of ceramists in Pucará, Puno, Peru, Bernardino Arce began working with clay as a child and later returned to the studio after studying architecture. Today, from his workshop in Arequipa, he creates ceramic pieces rooted in the ancient cultures, landscapes, and traditions of southern Peru.

Bernardino is best known for his bold, swirling patterns, formed with an engobe swirling technique inspired by Japanese water marbling. A technique perfected through innovation and years of experimentation. His designs often echo Colca Canyon embroidery, Toro Muerto petroglyphs, and Arequipa’s rich artistic heritage. As both maker and teacher, Bernardino has dedicated his life to keeping ceramic traditions alive, earning the distinguished title of “Amauta,” or great teacher, for his contributions to Peruvian craft.

Peruvian Craft Traditions

What makes Peruvian craft traditions special is the extraordinary continuity between ancient culture and contemporary artistry. For thousands of years, Peruvian makers have refined techniques in carving, knitting, pottery, weaving, and jewelry making, passing their knowledge from one generation to the next.

Inspired by a rich cultural heritage that includes ancient civilizations such as Caral, Machu Picchu, the treasures of Sipán, Paracas, or the Nazca Lines, today’s artisans continue to reinterpret traditional materials, symbols, and techniques in new and creative ways. The result is craft that feels deeply rooted in tradition while alive and evolving.

Lucuma Designs is proud to work with talented Peruvian artists and help preserve craft traditions, skills, and knowledge that have endured for generations.