Mata Ortiz Polychrome Pottery vessel Pilo Mora, Master Potter (1961 - ) 1990 Hand coiled low fire clay Pueblo Quezada, Mata Ortiz, Chihuahua, Mexico 7 inches H. x 7.5 inches in Diameter A classic example of this Master Potter's early work appearing in near excellent condition. This Pilo Mora pot has remained in my private collection since 1990 and has never been offered on the market before. Porfirio Mora Villalba, or Pilo Mora is one of the pioneers of Mata Ortiz Pottery and considered one of its Masters. He was born in 1961 in Juan Mata Ortiz, where he still lives. His interest in Mata Ortiz Pottery began when he was 12 years old. As making a living as a farmer became more difficult in the early 1980s due to drought, he began making pots. Emeterio "Telo" Ortiz, one of the early potters, taught him the technique. Pilo Mora's inspiration comes from his love for the work and his efforts to improve it. By sourcing new clays and pigments to create new combinations, he brings originality to his work. He won 1st Place for three consecutive years at the Concurso de Ceramica de Mata Ortiz (1995 - 1997) and 1st Place at a national competition that took place in Puebla in 1994. Milo Mora's has been exhibited at institutions including the Art Museum in the University of New Mexico, the San Diego Museum of Man, The Riverside Museum, and others. His work has been featured in books and publications such as "The Many Faces of Mata Ortiz" and "Artes de Mexico."