Talavera, in Puebla, Mexico, is a type of maiolica pottery, which is distinguished by a white glaze.
Authentic Talavera pottery only comes from the city of Puebla and the nearby communities of Atlixco, Cholula, and Tecali, because of the quality of the natural clay found there and the tradition of production which goes back to the XVI century.
But during the XX Century, the historic town of Dolores Hidalgo, craddle of Mexican Independence movement, developed a pretty well recognized Talavera industry.
So, if you want to bring a fiesta of color to your patio and play up your plants with fabulously flamboyant polychrome pottery, Talavera is what you need!
Pictured is a planter, but Talavera produces tiles, place settings, vases, drawer pulls, sinks and more. All are hand-painted in Dolores Hidalgo, Mexico. (Photo: richmondmagazine.com)
If you live in San Miguel, or just visiting for a few days, it is worth to drive 25 minutes northwest to beautiful Dolores Hidalgo (or you can take the bus), where you will be able to find a wonderful selection of Talavera pieces in various shapes and sizes.
All bear classical Mexican motifs, ,from highly crafted floral patterns and animal designs to sweet sombrero-wearing figures at siesta that will make you smile. Pots and planters range from $10 to $150 USD, depending on size and ornamental work.
Succulents, cactus and aloe veras look terrific in these colorful pieces. Fall mums, and basically any other plant, look pretty smashing, too.
SMT Newsroom with information from http://richmondmagazine.com/ and Wikipedia