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Ceramics and pottery in Mexico date far back before the Pre-Columbian period for thousands of years, when the ceramic arts and pottery crafts developed with the first advanced civilizations and cultures of Mesoamerica. With one exception, pre-Hispanic wares were not glazed, but rather burnished and painted with colored fine clay slips. The potter’s wheel was unknown as well, with pieces being shaped by molding, coiling and other methods.
After the Spanish Invasion and Conquest, European techniques and designs were introduced, nearly wiping out the native traditions. Indigenous traditions survive in a few pottery items such as comals, and the addition of indigenous design elements into mostly European motifs. Today, ceramics are still produced from traditional items such as dishes, kitchen utensils to new items such as sculptures and folk art. Despite the fame of the prior, the bulk of ceramic items produced in the country are floor and wall tiles along with bathroom fixtures.

Mexico has a number of well-known artisan ceramic traditions, most of which are in the center and south of the country. Examples are the Talavera of Puebla, the majolica of Guanajuato, the various wares of the Guadalajara area, and barro negro of Oaxaca. A more recent addition is the production of Mata Ortiz or Pakimé wares in Chihuahua. While the number of artisans has been dropping due to completion from mass produced items, the production of folk art and fine ware still has an important role in the Mexican economy and the production of pottery in general is still important to Mexican culture.

The making of earthenware began to replace stone utensils in Mexico began around the Purrón period (2300-1500 BCE). Many of these first ceramics were gourd or squash shaped, a carry over from when these vegetables were used to carry liquids.[1] This earthenware developed into a pottery tradition which was mostly made in natural clay and thinly coated with a fine clay slip. Most clays in Mexico need temper to regulate water absorption, with one significant exception being the clay used in the Fine Orangeware of the Gulf Coast.[2]

Pre-hispanic vessels were shaped by modeling, coiling or molding. Except for a proto wheel used by the Zapotecs, the potter’s wheel was unknown until the Spanish Conquest. Simple pinch pots or coiled pots were usually made by the family, with larger molded pieces made by craftsmen.[3] The earliest molded pieces were simply clay pressed against a pre-existing bowl, but double molds and slip casting came to be use to make bowls with relief decorations. Famous examples of this type exist in Tlaxcala and Puebla states.[4] Many figurines were also made using molds. Sometimes vessels were made with several molded pieces with the upper part finished by coiling.[4]

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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

PRLog (Press Release) – May 12, 2011 – COLORADO SPRINGS, CO –La Fuente Imports is now able to offer their clientele the beautiful, hand-crafted and painted Talavera tiles with Day of the Dead motifs. These eye-catching accent pieces are great for placing in kitchens, baths, hanging on the wall around your indoors’ bar area or outside party area. Also, the decorative ceramic tiles are perfect for covering the risers on a staircase. In order to ‘waste not’, use your left-over tiles as excellent coasters and trivets. One the practical side, these tiles may serve for both decorative and functional purposes, simultaneously. Andy Fuentes, owner of La Fuente, is even offering a special on these spectacular tiles – “Buy by the box and save 20 percent!”

Little has changed in the manufacturing process of Talavera tiles, since their inception in Mexico in 1653, when a potters’ guild was formed to regulate their manufacturing. Today, the basic process remains virtually the same.

The Day of the Dead is a festivity which originated in Mexico over 500 years ago, to honor their dead in the after-life. It is also a celebration of life after death, and takes place each year on the 2nd of November. Though now considered a Catholic festivity, other countries are also now celebrating this date with parades.

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About La Fuente Imports
Since 1997, La Fuente Imports is the Internet’s top source for the finest in home furnishings, accessories, and artwork from south of the border. They are proud to provide a pleasant shopping experience by offering the most original items available from Mexico, Central and South America, all at very affordable prices. At La Fuente Imports they work directly with every artist and hand-select each piece to ensure the highest possible quality and variety for their customers.

La Fuente Imports has transitioned to an internet-based business and therefore no longer offers a brick and mortar storefront. The Colorado Springs warehouse is available to pick up merchandise by appointment only. Visit them at www.lafuente.com.

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Click here to get more information on talavera pottery.

Click here to get more information on talavera pottery mexico.

Click here to get more information on talavera tile.

Click here to get more information on talavera tile mexico.