Mexican Artisans and Their Stonemasonry Mastery

Stonemasonry is a centuries-old trade that has stood the test of time. With the advent of modern technology, many would think that the craft has become obsolete. However, this is far from the truth. Although modern means have been introduced, traditional techniques are still widely used in the extraction and preparation of stone. Let's dive deeper into the world of modern stonemasonry and discover the remarkable skills of its artisans.

The Process of Quarrying

Quarrying is the process of extracting natural stone from the earth. Traditionally, quarrying was done manually with the use of wooden wedges and water-soaked joints. Nowadays, drilling machines, excavators, and explosives are used to extract stone from the earth. However, these methods are not suitable for extracting large blocks of stone, and manual methods are still used for this purpose.

One remarkable aspect of stonemasonry is the ingenuity of the stonemasons in extracting and preparing the blocks. They take into account changes in temperature and follow the natural lines of the stone to extract it in the best way possible.

Shaping the Stone

Once the stone has been extracted, it is time to shape it into the desired form. This is done using traditional tools such as hammers, chisels, and chisels, as well as other tools such as gravers, pointers, pots, and rasps. The stonemasons use these tools to create reliefs and intricate designs on the stone.

Some quarry crafts are made from a single block of stone, while others are made from several smaller blocks that are numbered and assembled to create the final piece.

The Artisans of Mexico

In Mexico, the artisans of Chimalhuacán, Acambay, and Toluca stand out for their mastery of stonemasonry. They produce a wide range of products, from molcajetes and metates to sculptures, columns, fountains, and phytomorphic and zoomorphic figures.

These artisans have honed their skills over generations and continue to preserve the traditions of stonemasonry in Mexico. They are a testament to the fact that traditional crafts can continue to thrive in the modern world.

Conclusion

Stonemasonry is a timeless craft that has been passed down from generation to generation. Despite the introduction of modern technology, traditional techniques are still widely used in the extraction and preparation of stone. The ingenuity of the stonemasons in shaping the stone is remarkable, and their craftsmanship is evident in the intricate designs and reliefs they create. The artisans of Mexico are a shining example of the mastery of stonemasonry, and they continue to preserve the traditions of the craft for future generations to appreciate.

In-Text Citation: Artesanía Mexiquense, La Magia De Nuestra Gente. 1st ed., Mexico, Gobierno del Estado de México, 2006.