Tradition
Talavera
Mexico · 16th century – present
Spanish roots, Mexican flowers. Blue on white, forever.
Spanish potters brought majolica techniques to Mexico—and indigenous artists transformed them into something new.
When Spanish colonizers arrived in Puebla, Mexico, they brought the tin-glazed majolica tradition from Talavera de la Reina in Spain. Indigenous potters, with their own rich ceramic heritage, learned and adapted the techniques. The result was Talavera Poblana: Spanish forms and techniques infused with Mexican colors, motifs, and spirit. Traditional Talavera uses only six colors on a creamy white base, painted freehand in intricate patterns. Every piece is made by hand.
What emerges when two traditions truly merge?
Techniques
- Tin glaze
- Hand painting
- Two-fire process
- Traditional pigments