The process of Talavera Pottery originated in ancient Mesopotamia and Egypt.  The process was perfected by the Chinese.  Spain adopted the process through their trade with China.

The Talavera process was brought to Mexico by the Spaniards in 1645.  The Talavera potters who came to Mexico came from the province of Toledo in central Spain.  The Chinese influence produced the blue and white design.  The yellow, oranges, reds and greens came from the Italian Renaissance.

The technique of Talavera pottery making has hardly changed since the 1600’s.

The entire process takes up to six weeks for each piece,  and a total firing time of up to 50 hours.

Clay -  Talavera is made from 2 different types of clay which are mixed together,  strained, kneaded, dried naturally, and sent to the work area.

Modeling -  Each piece of Talavera is shaped either on a potters wheel by hand, or or molded only by hand, and is dried for eight to twelve weeks.

Firing # 1 – Each piece is fired at about 1,560 degrees F.  The result is a natural clay color called “jaguete”.

Glazing -  Each piece is then dipped in a glaze that produces a brilliant finish of

authentic  “Talavera”.

Painting -  Each piece is then hand painted  with natural mineral based enamel utilizing special brushes made from mule hair.  This painting technique enables the artwork to maintain its color and brilliance over a long period of time.

Firing # 2 -  Each piece is again fired at a temperature of 1,922 degrees F., sealing all of the previous steps together as a single unique work of art that you will cherish forever!