Meet Kuntur Designs
A Family Tradition from Huancayo
Founded in 1988 in Huancayo, Peru, Kuntur Designs is a family-run artisan brand dedicated to preserving and reimagining the traditional art of mate burilado—the intricate carving and decoration of natural gourds.
The family’s story is rooted in the work of Don Ponciano Canto, who began mastering this demanding craft at a young age. His knowledge, precision and connection to Andean tradition became the foundation for a brand that continues to introduce Peruvian gourd art to new generations.
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The Art of Mate Burilado
Mates burilados are created by carefully carving designs into the surface of dried gourds using a fine engraving tool called a buril. Depending on the design, artisans may also incorporate color and other decorative techniques to bring each scene and character to life.
Historically, carved gourds have depicted Andean customs, celebrations, agricultural life, animals and community stories. Their detailed surfaces serve as visual records of Peruvian culture and the everyday experiences of the people who create them.
Because gourds grow naturally, no two have exactly the same size, shape, color or surface. These variations give every finished piece an individual character that cannot be replicated through mass production.
Tradition Reimagined
Building upon Don Ponciano’s craftsmanship, Katya and Blanca Canto helped expand Kuntur Designs with new products and contemporary interpretations of this ancestral art form.
Today, the collection includes decorative pieces, collectible figures and seasonal ornaments that combine traditional techniques with approachable designs for modern homes and gifts. From animals and nativity scenes to Christmas characters, every creation begins with a natural gourd and the skilled hands of a Peruvian artisan.
Art That Carries a Story
Kuntur Designs demonstrates how a traditional craft can evolve while maintaining its cultural roots. Every carved line reflects patience, experience and the continuation of knowledge passed through generations.
Peru Gift Shop is proud to share Kuntur Designs with customers in the United States and around the world, helping bring greater visibility to the artistry of Huancayo and the enduring beauty of Peruvian mate burilado.