Tlanchana Mermaid Clay Sculpture Handmade in Metepec, Estado de México

A tlanchana is a mythical water deity from Mesoamerican folklore, often depicted as a beautiful woman with a lower body that is a snake or, in later versions, a fish tail. This Tlanchana-inspired figurine was handmade using natural clay and traditional techniques in Metepec, Estado de México. The clay was hand-shaped and detailed, then adorned with dozens of tiny floral appliqués. Each element was brushed with natural mineral pigments before being fired, allowing the color to fuse into the piece and giving it both depth and durability.

In Metepec, this process is known as barro pigmentado. Artisans use a mixture of liquid clay and ceramic oxides like iron, cobalt, and manganese to create stable colors, then apply them by hand onto the sculpted piece. Once fired, the color becomes part of the surface. This piece includes a back loop for hanging and adds cultural character to any space.

Handmade in Metepec, Estado de México

Modeled and detailed entirely by hand using local clay

Colored with hand-brushed clay slips mixed with mineral pigments

Fired to set the colors permanently into the piece

Decorative appliqué elements give the piece depth and detail

Approximate Measurements: Height 6” x Length 7 ½” x Width 2 ½”

At Lolo—Mercadito, we are committed to acknowledging the nature of each product. With each purchase, you get an authentic, artisanal piece made with love by artisans from Mexico. These are artisanal products. For this reason, there might be some flaws and variations in sizing, color, and design. Note that they are not defects but a natural part of admiring handmade crafts