When I think of Mexico, I wouldn't necessarily think of tiles. In fact, you wouldn't find tiles anywhere near my list of “things that remind me of Mexico”, which consists entirely of
tacos, sombreros and the little girl on the ‘Old El Paso’ ad. However, if you
put tiles and Mexico into the same search bar on Google you will not be
disappointed!
(photo credit: http://www.sunset.com/home/before-after/oakland-home-remodel/tiled-stairs)
Mexico is actually famous for
their beautiful hand crafted ceramics tiles known as Talavera. Talavera is
white, tin-glazed type of ceramic, first introduced to Mexico by Spaniards in
the sixteenth century. The city of Puebla is home to these stunning tiles where,
due to the city being founded nestled between volcanoes, an abundant supply of
quality clay can be found. The prevalence of art in Puebla means Talavera is
achieved to such quality and beauty that it is exported to the rest of the
American continent.
And Talavera is not limited to
tiles! You can find an array of Talavera pottery that feature the same vibrant
colours and hand crafted mastery. The craftsmen of Puebla make everything from
a simple urn to a magnificent toilet with Talavera.
(photo credit: http://virtualvallarta.com/puertovallarta/puertovallarta/behind-the-scenes-at-a-ta.shtml)
A craft that has not changed
since the sixteenth century Talavera is a true tile treasure of the world.
