Preparing Clay Mixture for Black Pottery

04-May-2026

The artisan seen in the image belongs to the Tangkhul Tribe living in Manipur. He is preparing a clay mixture by combining fine clay with other materials as part of the black pottery making process.

This step is important because the prepared mixture is later used to shape the pottery items. The artisan kneads the clay thoroughly to make it soft and flexible, allowing it to be molded into different forms.

The image highlights traditional techniques, skill, and patience involved in the initial stages of pottery making.