pot

Date1777

Mediumcopper

Dimensions24 1/2 × 36 in., 117 lb. (62.2 × 91.4 cm, 53.1 kg)

ClassificationsTools & Equipment for Materials

Credit LineAlbuquerque Museum, gift of Rita Anderson and David Starr, daughter and son of Eleanor B. Sewell

Object numberPC2006.31.3

DescriptionThis hammered copper pot likely originates from Mexico, 1777. Also known as a cazo in Spanish, translating to "saucepan", it likely took on a variety of uses within a The cazo is riveted together and includes rounded handles. Patches are visible on the bottom surface, and the pot encompasses a largely rounded form, with an upper lip that is slightly flared outwards, while the pot's bottom seems to curve inwards slightly, creating the appearance of a semi-conical form. The outer surface of the cazo showcases some corrosion, characterized by blue-green coloration throughout. Taking a closer look at the pot's interior, a surface with circular dimpled texture reveals itself, likely a result of the hammering technique incorporated to construct the cazo. The circular rivets are visible along the upper edge of the pot's interior, while further substantial corrosion is also apparent. "1777" is also scratched into the inner rim, most likely the year of the cazo's craftsmanship. This cazo likely primarily served as a cooking or food preparation tool, including its usage over an open fire to heat food or water. Due to its versatility and copper's efficiency in heat conductivity, the cazo likely acted as a durable and reliable tool within everyday life, an object likely playing a part in the development of culinary methods and traditions preceding and throughout its construction in the late eighteenth century and beyond.

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