Talavera- Mexican Earthenware

Due to the Spaniards arrival, the blending of societies allowed the indigenous people of Mexico to learn combinations of styles that gave life to some of the more famous ceramic styles of  Mexican Earthenware such as Talavera or “majolica”.

Talavera from the state of Puebla is a descendant of the Arabic-Andalusion tradition, which began in the ninth century in Spain when the influence of the Arabic culture passed on its techniques to peninsular potters. In Talavera, de la Reina, Spain, it was very popular and it took a characteristic stylistic form in the 16^th Century. It was brought to the Americas, especially Nueva España (the new Spain,) as was the name that Mexico was called in colonial times.

Although the Mexican Earthenware Talavera is only produced in the state of Puebla, other majolica type earthenware is also produced in places such as Dolores Hidalgo, Guanajuato and San Miguel de Aallende.

As we go further west, in Tonala, Jalisco, which is another state in Mexico, there is a long tradition of ceramic production. Here in Jalisco, there is a more of a Persian influence, including such things as stew urns and the use of gold and silver.

In the city of Metepec in the State of Mexico, the ceramic tradition has been influence by Christian beliefs. This is where they create the well-known, arboles de la vida (trees of life,) because it explains the origins of life.  Most of the time there are figures of God, angles and Adam and Eve. Also popular are the figures of the serpent and some fruits. Red Ware is used to make things such as cooking pots, dishes and table dishes all of which are typical of the state of Michoacan.  The state of Oaxaca is famous for its barro negro or black clay.  The small town of Mata Ortiz in the state of Chihuahua, stands out for its beautiful pottery as well.

Within Talavera Mexican Earthenware, there now exists new forms and new designs for typical Mexican artwork. Late in the 1950s, stoneware or High Temperature ceramics appeared in Mexico. The origin of this type of ceramics is from China, Korea and Japan.

Mexican Ceramics bring together influences of pre-Hispanic, European, Arabic and Oriental Cultures. Whichever technique, Mexican ceramics have a flavor and individuality that is appreciated for its quality and art worldwide.

Talavera has such beauty that it has the ability transform any room. I am a big fan of Talavera and would love to help you get what you need or want.

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