Mexican Talavera Pottery

Around the area of Puebla, there are two of the most impressive volcanoes in all of Mexico - Iztaccihuatl (Is-Tah-She-Wha-Tell) and Popocateptl (Popo-Caw-Tay-Pet-Tell). However, this part of Mexico also has another legend of Talavera pottery. As you look at the many buildings such as churches and monasteries, you will see this type of pottery used as adornment, adding vibrant color. However, Talavera pottery is also found in most kitchens and on patios.

Talavera pottery is majolica earthenware, which is white and glazed, although you will also find pieces of blue, green, yellow, and so on. Talavera pottery was first introduced by the Spanish but interestingly, the term used, “Talavera” is more commonly heard in Mexico than it is in its originating country of Spain. Of all tin-glazed ceramic, Talavera is the oldest. While its beauty is one of the great aspects of this pottery, the fact that the same methods from 16^th century are still used today, adds interest.

During Colonial times, the capital of Mexico, now called Mexico City, was known as Nueva Espana. It was there that this earthenware was produced and such an important part of the economy. Shortly after Nueva Espana was established, the production of Talavera pottery, tiles, and other ceramic ware began, sometime around 1531.

This particular region of Mexico is also known for its fine quality clay, a real advantage in creating Talavera pottery. Very soon after experimenting with the clay and various techniques, amazing quality and beauty was achieved and with that, popularity of this type of pottery around the continent. Another fascinating aspect of Talavera pottery is that there are several legends to its origin.

For example, one theory is that Spanish monks coming from Danto Domingo monastery located in Puebla had sent for the artisans of Talavera de la Reina, asking them to come to the region to teach the native people how to make magnificent pieces, using the natural resource of clay. The result was that the indigenous people made ceramic pieces and tiles very similar to what was produced in Spain. With the completed pieces, the monasteries and churches were decorated, adding color and enhancing the religious sculptures.

We know that these natives were very skilled and had a long history of making quality earthenware but they were not trained in using the pottery wheel or in tin glazing the finished pieces. Because this is one of the main characteristics of Talavera pottery, it obviously created a serious problem. Now, while that theory sounds plausible, there were others.

As an example, it is also believed that the Dominican friars, who were very skilled in creating Talavera pottery, were actually the people who taught the Indians how to make the ceramic pieces and tiles. We do know from documents that many of the artisans from Talavera de la Reina in the 16^th century had workshops where they made the various ceramic wares and tiles. Because of such high demand, the businesses were flourishing.

However, eventually, special ordinances were established whereby all potters making Talavera pottery had to follow very strict guidelines for each piece made. The purpose of these ordnances was to ensure customers were buying only quality pottery that had consistent standards and that each of the Talavera pottery pieces had a distinct style, meeting only the highest excellence.

To give you an idea of what this gild required, blue was used only for the finest of ceramic pieces. The reason is that the mineral pigments required to produce the color blue were very costly. With this, customers would immediately be able to tell if the Talavera pottery was excellent quality and unique. Now, keep in mind that all of the Talavera pottery pieces are of high quality but those made from blue are at the top.

Then, to ensure people were not making fake Talavera, each of the master potters were required to leave their mark or signature on the pottery. Next, Talavera pottery was broken down into three specific categories, depending on the quality. These included “Fine”, “Semi-Fine”, and “Daily Use.” Finally, all of the artisans were required to pass an annual test to ensure they met the high standards required for making Talavera pottery.

Keep in mind that while Talavera pottery was often used to make religious figures, plates, pots, and jars, you will also find it used in many other aspects, especially in today’s world. In fact, many of the Spanish style kitchens will use Talavera tiles for the incredible color and durability. If you are planning a trip to Puebla, Mexico, you will marvel in all of the pottery and ceramic that adorns the city.

Today, Talavera pottery has not lost its popularity and although a little expensive to produce, it is magnificent and well worth the money. Just be sure you look for the mark or signature of the master potter and look on the base to make sure it states it comes from Puebla. The oldest company still producing Talavera pieces is called Uriarte, which makes extraordinary pieces. If you like, you can visit this company and watch as the pieces are made by a master’s hands.