Talavera is a form of Majolica, an ancient ceramic process in which only the earth's materials are used to create the pottery. Thought to be introduced to Mexico by Spanish artisans or clergy sometime in th 16th century, today's Talavera artisans still follow the age-old tradition of only using the earth's bounty in the process. From the creation of the clay, to the mixing of the mineral based paints, artisans adhere to the process and color guidelines that have made Talavera a treasured art form over the years.

Talavera pieces can be expensive due to the lengthy creative process and material restrictions required of true Talavera. While exquisite as tableware, for the average person in Mexico it is out of reach for daily use. Therefore you will often find a hole for decorative display on plates. It is quite traditional to purchase a single, exquisite piece of Talavera as a gift for weddings or for other important life celebrations.

This Talavera fish shaped plate has an intricate bird and floral motif and is painted with varying shades of the deep cobalt blue and clean white mineral based colors allowed in Talavera pottery. It features a hole for hanging, and is signed by the artisans in the Hernandez family factoria, Puebla, Mexico.

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