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Process

How Talavera is Made
The dexterity of the artisans from Puebla is evident when one learns about the steps involved in manufacturing a Talavera piece.


   Clay ... click image to enlarge    Modeling ... click image to enlarge  
  1. Clay
Two types of clay are mixed. They are strained and left to rest to loose their humidity. Later they are kneaded by foot and then sent to the workshop.


  2. Modeling
The pieces are shaped manually on a potters wheel or with a mold and they are left to dry from eight to twelve weeks.


 
   First Kiln ... click image to enlarge  Brushing ... click image to enlarge
3. First Kiln
Once dry, the pieces are baked at a temperature of 850°C (1562°F). After this process they acquire the typical clay color which is known as "jaguete".


4. Brushing
To remove impurities before glazing takes place, all pieces are first cleaned with air-brush or scrub.


 Glaze ... click image to enlarge  Decoration ... click image to enlarge
5. Glaze
The pieces are dipped in glaze which gives them the unique shine and color of the authentic Talavera pottery.


6. Decoration
The pieces are painted with special brushes made of mule hair and decorated with mineral based paints. This allows the Talavera pottery to be exposed to the natural elements without loosing its intense color and shine.

 Second Kiln ... click image to enlarge  
7. Second Kiln
Finally, the pieces are baked again, this time at 1050°C (1922°F), to obtain the shine and color that characterize Talavera pottery.

 
Did you know?
Painting Talavera involves knowing the reverse color process.
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