Spruce Up Your Home with Authentic Talavera Pottery

Authentic Talavera from MexicoThis year get creative and choose gifts to delight everyone on your list and be remember for this unique piece of art.

You will find something unique for your friends and family that they will appreciate you for it, because it will change the look in any room of thier home.

Talavera decorative pieces will enhance any room of any home lacking in liveliness as to cause mental weariness.

Talavera pottery comes in inexhaustible shapes, colors and forms making it one of the most versatile workings of art, which makes it uncomplicated to appeal to a variety of taste.

There is a such wide variety to choose from that while you are determining what to buy, you will most likely have a harder time deciding which pieces to keep for yourself and which ones to give as gifts.

Talavera is furthermore a brilliant option for home remodeling projects, you can transform your kitchen with tiles, murals, floor tiles, cooking ware, wall plates, and dishes.

If you are thinking about your bathroom, you have talavera sinks, mirrors, and bathroom accessories.

You also can convert the look and feel of your dinning space, living-room, bedroom, and floors, here is no end to the many ways you can fix up and change the look in your household.

After you get a Talavera pottery piece, you are in possession of a part of fine art that has a rich history and a tradition going back to the 16Th century after it was formerly introduced by the Conquistadors to the Nueva Espana.

The indigenous people who learned the old techniques added their own themes, colors and shapes, which gave birth to the pottery that we see today.

When you look at a Talavera vase, jar, urn, platter, plate, bath accessories, and tiles you will notice the influence of the different cultures; Arab, Spanish, Chinese, Italian, and Mexican that where involved in the evolution of this world-renowned art that had a great influence throughout the newly discover world.

Due to due to its functionality and durability in every day use, Talavera pottery became popular in the 19Th century and in many cases a Talavera piece would become a legacy within a family, passing from one generation to the next one. Today, this can also be true, you can start a little legacy for you, or someone that you know.

In our day, this will also will hold to be true, you can start a minor legacy of your own, or someone that you know.

This year give out extra significance with less expenses with a piece of hand painted Talavera pottery, the finest earthenware of Mexico.

The Pride of Mexico: Talavera Pottery

Talavera Ginger Jar by Maximo HuertaWe live in a world where technology, Internet and LCD screens are everyday conversation. But some people like to take us a break and enjoy the simple things that have been with us for many centuries. In Mexico we are very proud of our Mexican pottery

The pottery was used by our ancestors for everyday use, but also as part of their religious rites. So we can find a wide variety of ways, because although they could be used to bring water, were also placed proudly in the center of the ceremonies that took place.

An authentic pottery is made entirely by hand, using techniques that our ancestors discovered and that even today are passed by tradition from grandfather to childs. While today are manufactured in serie the fake ceramic, for do a real ceramic is required about a month of work.

Clay usually used for processing, so we can ensure a very strong product that will stand the test of time. Originally this material was used to keep water cool, then before the intense heat of this country, they had a way to maintain a good temperature this vital liquid.

The crafts used for daily use are usually brown, keeping the color of the earth. But for decorating the home is unusual to keep that color, it is common that is decorated with colors that give it new life.

There are different types of Mexican pottery throughout the country, each region has its own style that characterizes it. For example, there Talavera Puebla, which is valued worldwide for its beauty and level of complexity in their development.

If you come to Mexico, you can visit the many states out there. Everyone has their own style, so you probably end up finding something according to your tastes and needs. We have crafts of all sizes and colors for your home.

In conclusion, in Mexico we are very proud of our ceramics. Has a unique globally which is prized by people who know art. Do not be fooled by imitations, the real is reality by craftsmen who are still using ancient methods.

Talavera: An Essential Component in a Southwest Mexican Home

When creating a southwest Mexican rustic home decor, talavera pottery can add a gorgeous finishing touch. Talavera pottery plays an important role in Mexican decor because of the unique styles, colors and designs of each creation. Your home will be the talk of the neighborhood and no one has to know you didn’t pay a fortune. Here’s some information about talavera pottery and ways you can use it for home decoration.

Authentic Talavera PlateWhat is Talavera Pottery?

Talavera pottery is created with majolica earthenware, which is a type of ceramic that is glazed and white in color. The pottery was introduced to Mexico by Spaniards. It is used to decorate many patios, commercial and residential buildings, social and business squares, and even homes in Mexico.

A city in Mexico called Puebla was established in 1531 and almost immediately became the center of earthenware production. Today, the pottery is still being made with the same techniques that were used during the 16th Century, and it is the oldest tin-glazed ceramic in America.

Talavera Products for Home Decor

When shopping for talavera pottery, you must think out of the box. Look around for a variety of products, such as talavera plates, jars, pots, vases and religious figurines. You can create a southwestern decor in every room of your home using various types of pottery. Talavera pottery can be placed in room corners on the floor or next to pieces of equipal furniture such as sofas, chairs or floor lamps. Add Talavera plates to your kitchen hutch or China cabinet display along with Mexican glassware (such as blue rim margarita drinking glasses).

On the patio, use colorful outdoor equipal patio furniture along with talavera planting pots. These look lovely on wood, brick or stone patios…whatever fits your style. Hang a relaxing hammock nearby and complete your yard decor with matching bird feeders and birdhouses, garden statues (with Mexican flare), fountains and stepping-stones!

Buy pottery products to match your other southwest home decor items in color and theme. This will give every room a true southwest Mexican rustic home decor. You can buy authentic or imitation talavera pottery. Either way, make sure you’re getting quality items and buy only from a reputable retailer. There are many websites offering pottery, but beware of those that don’t guarantee the quality of their products. Also, look for other great items such as rustic sconce light covers and Mexican tin mirrors. These make great gifts for anyone that appreciates Mexican decor. You’ll want a beautifully crafted piece that will last for many years!

Talavera Pottery

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

Centuries-Old Art of Making Talavera Pottery

MH461a - Talavera PlateSince its introduction by Spanish settlers in the 16th century, talavera pottery has become synonymous with Puebla. The beautifully hand-crafted ceramics, which take the form of everything from garden tiles to dinnerware, adorn building fronts in the historic center, replace china sets in Mexican households, and travel home with visitors as souvenirs. Talavera is so revered that President Calderón ordered a special bicentennial pattern last year for his Independence Day state dinner; Governor Rafael Moreno Valle buys centerpieces to give as personal gifts; and collectors worldwide seek out new and historical pieces to display as fine art.

The local tradition of making talavera started shortly after the city of Puebla was founded in 1531. “The Spanish feverishly began building churches, monasteries, and convents,” notes MexOnline.com. “To decorate these buildings, craftsman from Talavera de la Reina … 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.”

Nearly 500 years later, artisans continue to produce talavera in Puebla. In fact, the capital city is home to the longest continuously operating factory in Mexico and perhaps the world: Uriarte Talavera. Uriarte is one of the oldest businesses in the country, ranking in the top 10 behind José Cuervo’s tequila distillery in Jalisco and several other well-known enterprises.

Excerpt from Pueblo-Mexico.com

Applying Different Types Of Mexican Tile In Your Home

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.

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