tiles

Majolica Tile Murals

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There’s nothing shy about Mexican interior design as it is full of color and ornate details. Instantly add an eye-catching colorful backdrop to your kitchen with our decorative Majolica Tile Murals. Each mural is the perfect finishing touch to any kitchen which is in search of a splash of color and Mexican flair.

Fresh Salsa Tile Mural

There’s nothing shy about Mexican interior design as it is full of color and ornate details. Instantly add an eye-catching colorful backdrop to your kitchen with our decorative Majolica Tile Murals. Each mural is the perfect finishing touch to any kitchen which is in search of a splash of color and Mexican flair.

Both of our new mural designs offer artwork which evokes the vibrant spirit of Mexico. Our Chile Harvest Tile Mural and Fresh Salsa Tile Mural are highly-durable, washable and can go where prints and paintings can’t.

Majolica pottery originated in the 16th century and is primarily distinguished by the milky-white glaze used after the first firing. Each mural is created in Santa Rosa workshop which lies in the mountains of central Mexico, high above the city of Guanajuato at 8,360 feet. Each Santa Rosa Majolica piece is in itself a unique work of art, one that will bring the flavor and flare of this artistry directly into your home.

All majolica tile murals are perfect for kitchen application as they have a semi-gloss finish that is fade, weather and scratch resistant so they can be installed either indoors or out! Where will you install your new mural?

The Allure of Mexican Talavera

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The world of interior design knows Talavera pottery as an ornate style of ceramics produced solely in Mexico by proud local Mexican Talavera Pottery

artisans. These vibrantly colored, handcrafted works of art have been fashioned in the same way for centuries and appreciated for their quality and aesthetics for just as long. So what is it about Mexican Talavera that makes it so special?

The world of interior design knows Talavera pottery as an ornate style of ceramics produced solely in Mexico by proud local artisans.

As you can imagine, Mexican Talavera has a long and rich history. Named after the Spanish village of Talavera de la Reina, this renowned ceramic art boasts a melting pot of multiculturalism. The Spanish contribution dates back to the invasion of the Moors, who brought their knowledge of ceramics from ancient Egypt and Mesopotamia, and which was later refined by a combination of the Italian Renaissance and artisans from the Orient. Later, Spanish colonists brought their highly refined ceramic skills to Mexico, where they were once again blended with the unique pottery styles of Aztec, Mayan and other indigenous cultures.

It’s not just the history of Mexican Talavera that makes it so desirable. Excellent craftsmanship is a common trademark of Talavera pottery. The process begins by blending together two different clays, then soaking them thoroughly in water to improve pliability. When it’s determined that the clay is ready, having been removed of impurities, it’s then formed into the desired shape by hand, molds or a potter’s wheel. Next, the newly constructed form is left to dry for up to three months. Once the artist has inspected and approved the dried clay, the piece then undergoes the first of two firings. The initial firing turns the clay into a reddish-orange color that is then brightly painted with intricate patterns – a trademark of Talavera ceramics. Afterwards, the pottery is submerged in a special tin-glaze, then fired once more. The final product – what was once an ordinary mound of clay – is now a beautiful work of Talavera art.

Talavera pottery is known for brilliant colors set against a pristine white background. Typically, the vivid patterns are slightly raised, and the entire piece is smoothed over by a glossy sheen. Yellow, green and mauve were traditionally the most prolific colors used to decorate Talavera, although cobalt blue was the most desired. Due to the expensive mineral pigments required for its use, this regal color became a way to identify the finest quality of Talavera ceramics.

Today, Talavera patterns can be simple and bold or elaborate and highly detailed. Floral patterns are perhaps the most common, but when it comes to Mexican Talavera, creativity is limitless. Although some patterns might appear similar, hand-painted Talavera is never identical. This should be no cause for concern, however, as color and pattern themes almost always exist, and the individual character of each piece will only enhance your Talavera collection or home décor. This is especially true if you consider decorating your home with Talavera tile.

One of the most predominant characteristics of colonial Mexican cities, in particular the city of Puebla located in central Mexico, is the beautiful Talavera tiles. In the 17th and 18th centuries, as the production of Talavera pottery continued to grow, striking tile and tile murals began to adorn Mexican churches, buildings, stairways, gardens and homes. These architectural examples splashed color in an otherwise dull stretch of concrete and brought kitchens and bathrooms to life in a way that only Talavera tile could deliver. Now, more than ever, this style continues to be embraced as authentically Mexican.

When it comes to Mexican and southwestern home décor, Talavera pottery and Talavera tile can be an essential part of capturing an authentic design motif. At La Fuente Imports we strive to offer the most outstanding and diverse selection of handcrafted Talavera tiles found anywhere on the web. Also, be sure to browse our exceptional Talavera plates and platters, plus everything else for decorating your home including Talavera vases, canisters, planters and more!

Mexican Pottery Like Mexican Pots Unveils The Geographic and Cultural Range of Mexico As A Country

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Authentic Talavera TilesThe different Mexican pottery shows the cultural, geographic and historic diversity of the country of Mexico. Pottery was designed in the course of the pre-classic era around 4500 yrs in the past in Mesoamerica. At that time, the clay pieces that were located reveal the cultural background of the country of Mexico. It utilizes the Spanish procedure of glazing and firing as well as Indian form of shaping and including styles and colors. In time, the hand made ceramics were being exchanged by bulk generate and less expensive wares together with the technical progression. Various of the designs of Mexican Talavera pottery have replaced their domestic ware for beautiful parts. Almost certainly one of the most profitable and most displayed Mexican pottery that one particular can uncover today is definitely the Oaxacan Black clay.

Puebla in the country of Mexico is the base of the Talavera pottery like talavera tile. It’s a variety of majolica pottery recognized by its milky-white glaze. Puebla is the only area where actual pottery emanates from and in addition from close by places such as Cholula, Atlixco and Tecali because of the organic clay quality found in these regions. A lot of this pottery was decorated in blue. Nevertheless, colours like yellow, green, orange, black and mauve are extensively made use of as well. The golden age of Talavera pottery is since the year 1650 to 1750. The culture that established there’s generally known as Talavera Poblana to distinguish it out of the Talavera pottery in Spain. It combines Spanish, Italian and indigenous ceramic solutions.

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Go From Bland To Unique With Mexican Talavera Tile In Your Home

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talavera_tilesMexican Talavera Tiles mainly get their inspiration from the culture and history of Mexico. You can find many different types of tiles that all have a specific, unique design on them. The options that you have are limitless, as long as you have enough room for that much tile. With the options that you have, you can either go for hand painted and crafted, or you can purchase them factory made. The factory made tiles are generally less expensive than the hand crafted tiles.

The most popular type of Mexican tile are the ones that are hand crafted, although you also have the option of purchasing factory made tiles. The tile is generally a terracotta tile or ceramic tile that is painted with a unique Mexican design. There are many different types of Mexican tiles, although the most widely used are the hand painted ones such as Talavera tiles and Saltillo tiles.

Mexican Tiles That Are Hand Crafted – You might be wondering what is so special about hand crafted tiles. First of all, you will be receiving a unique style that could never be produced in a factory setting. When you choose to go with hand painted tiles, you are buying something that has so much beauty and character that a factory could never compare. The design that is painted on the tiles depends on culture.

The greatest advantage that you will get from using Mexican tile in your home is the ability to capture the Mexican culture. This is the main reason why hand painted and hand crafted Mexican tiles are so desirable. You can use their design to bring out the rustic Mexican heritage in your home.

Talavera Mexican Tiles – Talavera tiles are considered the most popular type of Mexican tile that there is. These are the tiles that have bright designs and colors that you would find in bathrooms, sinks, kitchens, stairs and backsplashes. When placed together, these ceramic tiles can come in geometrical and symmetrical designs that can create amazing patterns.

The most interesting fact about these tiles is the reasoning behind their design. These tiles are meant to have small flaws, which helps to bring out their rustic appearance and setting. The color of the finish or paint may have small imperfections that help to bring out the Mexican design and culture. The most common size of these tiles is 4×4, but they have also been seen in larger and smaller sizes.

The most amazing thing about using Mexican tiles is that to some extent, the designs and colors will never be the same as another set of tiles. They are unique in their own way and show just how artistic the Mexican culture is. Even if you purchasing plain, solid colored Mexican tiles, they are still able to capture the rustic heritage of Mexican\’s. It doesn\’t matter whether you are searching for the right type of hand painted tiles, Talavera tiles to use in your sinks or on your walls, or you would prefer Saltillo tiles to use outdoors for your patio, you will be able to capture the Mexican culture in your home.

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Talavera Pottery

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Talavera Plate by Studio La CupulaTalavera Poblana is an exquisite type of pottery whose history goes back hundreds of years. The lovely and beautiful colonial city of Puebla, located just 70 miles from Mexico City, is home to this world-renowned art form. In addition to purchasing authentic Talavera pottery in Puebla, there are many reasons to visit the city, including sampling its fabulous regional cuisine. Some of Puebla’s delectable dishes include their famous mole poblana sauce as well as the seasonal delicious dish of chiles en nogada. Additionally, the historic center of Puebla has been named a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Undoubtedly, one of the reasons for this honor is due to the absolutely stunning tile work that decorates the town’s historic colonial buildings.

Mexico has a rich and long history with producing ceramics, predating the arrival of the Spanish by several centuries. Stunning pre-Columbian artifacts from its many civilizations attest to this fact. The indigenous peoples of Mexico, long acquainted with making items from clay, had their own distinct method of producing earthenware, one which did not involve glazing or the use of the potter’s wheel.

Shortly after Puebla was founded in 1531, the Spanish feverishly began building churches, monasteries and convents. To decorate these buildings, craftsman from the city of Talavera de la Reina, located in Spain, were commissioned to come to the New World to produce fine tiles as well as other ceramic ware. In addition, these same craftsman were to teach the indigenous artisans their technique of Majolica pottery, in order to increase production levels.

The tradition that the Spanish craftsmen brought from Talavera de la Reina to the New World has a fascinating history. During the 8th century, the Moors from Northern Africa conquered Spain and with their arrival, the customary blending of cultures occurred. One such consequence was the introduction of Majolica pottery, an art form known for its beautiful glazes and intricate design work. A major component of Majolica is its glazing technique which contains tin as an ingredient. This particular type of glaze provides a creamy white background that is ideal for applying design.

Spanish craftsman from Talavera de la Reina embraced the techniques of Majolica and also added to the art form. Chinese and Italian influences were incorporated and guilds of craftsmanship, where strict adherence to technique were required, were formed. This dedication was brought from Spain to Mexico. Guilds were summarily established in Mexico with appropriate standards and regulations. The indigenous craftsmen incorporated their artistic heritage with the techniques of Majolica pottery. A beautiful marriage was formed between the old world and the new, and Puebla became the birthplace of an exquisite art form known as Talavera Poblana.

An elaborate process is involved in making a piece of Talavera pottery. First, comes the selection of the clay, which is chosen from the area of Puebla and nearby vicinities. The clay found in this region is known for its fine quality. After a detailed process of washing and soaking the clay, it is then hand-formed or shaped on a potter’s wheel into its desired form. Next, it is allowed to dry in the sun for a matter of days, after which it is fired at 2,000 degrees Fahrenheit. A test is performed at this point, making sure there are no cracks in the object. This is followed by an initial glazing process after which the hand-painted design is applied. This stage differs in length, dependent upon the intricacy of the design work involved. A final firing is performed. Before being offered for sell, a certification process is next on the agenda. This is to ensure that the piece meets regulations and the level of excellence in craftsmanship has been achieved. It is at this time, provided all conditions have been met, that the piece is stamped with the maker’s mark along with a registration number.

One characteristic of authentic Talavera pottery is the quality of detail in the painting, expertly applied. There is a raised appearance to the painted line, accompanied by a glossy sheen. Only natural earth pigments are used for the colors found in true Talavera. In its early days, the finest pottery was painted with a deep blue mineral, the most expensive pigment. This color motif, placed on the creamy white of the fired clay, was much sought after. It also provided a quality measure, reassuring the buyer that the piece they were purchasing was of the highest caliber. Other colors were introduced in 18th century, including yellow, green and mauve.

Today, when visiting the city of Puebla, you will be able to purchase authentic Talavera tiles, vases and dishes, along with many other fine Talavera objects. As well, you can see first-hand how Talavera tiles were used extensively in the decoration of the city’s historic churches, monasteries and ex-convents.

Article source: MexOnline.com

Applying Different Types Of Mexican Tile In Your Home

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When decorating the inside of your home, it is a good idea to consider what decorative theme you plan on making prevalent throughout your home. Many different types of furnishings can be used to convey a certain message in the environment, with accessories such as lighting fixtures and wall-mounted furnishings further solidifying the theme. One of the most important aspects of the decoration process, however, is considering what type of floor you want to have present in the room. Because of how the floor can be seen as both the backdrop and the centerpiece of the room, it is a good idea to plan your floor first before purchasing other furnishings for the home. Tiles are perhaps one of the most widely recognized and aesthetically pleasing types of flooring options available, and Mexican tile in particular can be an extremely attractive option for homes that emphasize a more traditional and quaint design.

talavera_tilesTypical Mexican tiles are unique furnace-fired terracotta pieces of tile that can have a wider variety of colors, finishes, and designs, each of which can provide something unique for your home. Authentic Mexican tiles are typically hand-made at local kilns, fired at low temperatures to ensure a strong, reliable surface. What makes these tiles truly special is the potential for charming flaws that it may have when it is made by hand. Some Mexican tile designs may not be perfectly flat or perfectly square, and some may even feature imprints of animal tracks or debris, creating a truly old-world feeling in the home.

Saltillo tiles are typically the traditional Mexican ceramic tile, which features a wide variety of colors, such as varying hues of browns, beiges, oranges, yellows, and even reds. These festive colors make them ideal for homes that feature such a color scheme. The tile is named for the city from which the strong clay is mined. Another type of tile is the Talavera tile, which is the most decorative type of tile because of the wide variety of patterns that are typically painted on them. These tiles are given a glossy finish to further emphasize their decorative appeal. These types of tiles are often wall-mounted in conjunction with the aforementioned Saltillo tiles because of how well the two types complement each other. By carefully planning out the design of your home beforehand, and researching different types of furnishings that can go along with the backdrop, you will no doubt be able to create a warm, cozy environment that is sure to please.

Article Source: http://www.articlesbase.com/diy-articles/applying-different-types-of-mexican-tile-in-your-home-6839202.html

 

How Talavera is Used

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Talavera ceramic is mostly used to make utilitarian items such as plates, bowls, jars, flowerpots, sinks, religious items and decorative figures. However, a significant use of the ceramic is for tiles, which are used to decorate both the inside and outside of buildings in Mexico, especially in the city of Puebla.talavera_tilesThe Puebla kitchen is one of the traditional environments of Talavera pottery, from the tiles that decorate the walls and counters to the dishes and other food containers. It is a very distinct style of kitchen. In monastery kitchens of the area, many of the designs also incorporate the emblem of the religious order. Many of the facades in the historic center of Puebla are decorated with these tiles.

These tiles are called azulejos and can be found on fountains, patios, the facades of homes, churches and other buildings, forming an important part of Puebla’s Baroque architecture. This use of azulejos attested to the family’s or church’s wealth. This led to a saying “to never be able to build a house with tiles”, which meant to not amount to anything in life. Being able to show this kind of wealth was not restricted to Puebla. In Mexico City, the church of the Convent of La Encarnacion and the church of the Virgin of Valvanera both feature cupolas covered in Talavera. The most famous example of Talavera in the capital city is the Casa de los Azulejos, or House of Tiles, which is an 18th-century palace built by the Count del Valle de Orizaba family. What makes this palace, in the City of Palaces, distinct is that its facade on three sides is completely covered in expensive, blue-and-white tile – sensational at the time the tiles were applied.