The Ministry of Culture announced on March 19 that it participated in a cultural event marking the 13th anniversary of the declaration of knowledge and practices associated with the production of mate burilado as National Cultural Heritage. The event, organized by the Decentralized Directorate of Culture (DDC) of Junín, took place in Cochas Chico and Cochas Grande, communities known for their traditional craftsmanship.
Mate burilado is an ancestral art form practiced in the district of El Tambo, Huancayo province. It was recognized as National Cultural Heritage in 2013 due to its historical, artistic, and symbolic value as a living expression of Andean memory and identity.
Currently, about 300 master artisans are part of this community. Their skills are passed down through generations, helping to preserve this technique as an essential part of Andean identity. Each piece produced using mate burilado techniques reflects scenes from daily life, history, and the environment of the Mantaro Valley.
Among the notable artisans are Irma Poma, Florencio Sanabria, Clotilde Núñez, Alejandro Osores, and Pedro Veli—who at age 85 continues to create unique works. These artists use various methods such as primavera (spring), burning, black background, and dyeing to produce narrative pieces that demonstrate the ongoing relevance and continuity of this cultural legacy.
The main event was held at Parque de los Mates in Cochas Chico. Attendees participated in exhibitions, demonstration workshops, and purchased unique mate burilado pieces. Artisans have strengthened their cultural offerings through hands-on workshops, private museums, commercial spaces, and participation in local and national festivals—including “Ruraq Maki,” an initiative by the Ministry promoting traditional Peruvian art.
The Ministry said it will continue providing technical assistance for promoting and transmitting this cultural practice together with local governments and artisan communities to ensure its preservation.
