In the 15th and 16th centuries, the town of Talavera de la Reina, Spain, became internationally renowned for ceramics. They called it “La Ciudad de la Cerámica,” or the “The City of Ceramics.” The city’s designs owe a lot to the international population that resided there. This includes Dutch and Arab settlers that contributed new techniques, tools and tastes that ultimately informed the Talavera style.

When the city of Puebla, Mexico was established in 1531—just a decade after the conquest of the Aztec Empire—the production of ceramic goods came naturally to its people. Partly thanks to the abundance of quality clay and a long tradition of producing earthenware. The prehispanic cultures of Mexico did not, however, use a potter’s wheel and were unfamiliar with tin-glazing. Spaniards introduced both to them in the 16th century. Thus transforming their methods of making, painting, and glazing pottery with Talavera’s now trademark milky white glaze that is very popular in Mexico and the Southwestern United States.

This large oblong planter is an excellent example of the bright colors found in Talavery. It measures 8" wide by 18" long.