Mata Ortiz pottery, named after the town of Mata Ortiz in the Mexican state of Chihuahua, represents some of the finest and most refined pottery styles in all of México. The region, rich with clay, has been fertile ground for pottery-making since the pre-hispanic era. In the 1970's, Juan Quezada (considered the "father" of modern-day Mata Ortiz pottery styles), reignited the pottery tradition in this town by experimenting with new techniques and types of local clay, resulting in a contemporary style of ceramics production. Today, hundreds of artisans throughout the region have built upon Quezada's work by honing and perfecting their own unique aesthetic.