The Last Story of ”Pomanduno” in Buton

The intensive mentoring in and promotion of earthenware is now very important to preserve the Baubau handicrafts.

KOMPAS/SAIFUL RIJAL YUNUS

Using a bamboo stick and a river stone, Wa Aji (70) forms clay into earthenware, in Lipu Village, Betoambari, Baubau, Southeast Sulawesi, Thursday (26/5/2022). The existence of pottery in Buton land is threatened due to the absence of regeneration of pomanduno or earthenware makers.

Holding a piece of bamboo and a river stone, Wa Aji, 70, was solemnly working on a lump of clay in her lap. The movement was flexible, due to decades of experience making earthenware.

The grandmother, with grandchildren she can't count, survives on earthenware, as well as being the last few pomanduno in the land of Buton.