Talavera tile, is the art form created in the towns of Puebla and the nearby communities of Atlixco, Cholula, and Tecali, in Mexico. This art-form is renown worldwide for its magnificent beauty and durability, even when exposed to the environment for long periods of time.

The original, more simple style of Talavera tile was introduced in Mexico around 1645. In Spain, it dates back even further to the 15th Century, when Italians started experimenting with color pigments and glazes. They then incorporated Arab, Italian and Oriental design patterns. When the Spaniards began to colonize Mexico or "New Spain", as it was then referred to, and they realized that the area now known as Puebla was rich in clays, the Spanish monks brought over craftsmen from the town of Talavera de la Reina, located in central Spain. They also brought along with them the potters' wheel, which the Indians had never seen before. The monks taught the local Indians how to work the wheel, as well working with tin glazing.

Talavera tile consists of two types of clay which are mixed together. In the "olden days", the Indians performed the mixing with their feet. The mixture is then shaped by hand. A more modern method is to set them in molds and placed to dry. This first drying stage may take anywhere from seven to twelve weeks. In total, the pieces must be left to dry for a total of up to 24 weeks. The Talavera tile is then fired up on a kiln at 850 degrees Celsius ( 1562 degrees Fahrenheit). It is here that the tile acquires a color commonly referred to as "jaguete", which is simply the typical color of the clay. After the initial glazing is completed, the Talavera tile is then meticulously inspected. The rough edges are sanded down. The designs are hand-made, individually, and the Talavera ceramic is then painted with special brushes made of mule hair. The paints used are mineral-based, to allow the Talavera tile to be exposed to the environment for long periods of time without losing its luster and colorings. The last firing is at 1050 degrees Celsius (1922 degrees Fahrenheit). This last firing is responsible for bringing out the highly coveted "Talavera gloss".

Talavera tile has numerous decorative uses. You may simply hang them on a wall. Since they have been manufactured for resiliency you can use them to set hot plates on, when setting a table for guests. Normally, people tend to use them for wall murals in the kitchen or in rows in their bathroom. Talavera tile is also very popular underneath steps. There are even numbered Talavera tiles which you can use to depict your home address, outside. Due to their vibrant hues they are an eye catcher anywhere you place them.

The art of Talavera tile making became almost extinct during the Mexican War of Independence in the 18th Century. At one stage, during this period, there were only 8 craftsmen working their trade in the entire region. Almost 200 years later we have seen a resurgence of this wonderful art take place, spear-headed by the artisans themselves as well as art collectors. Today, Talavera tile is more popular than ever being sold not only in Mexico but, exported world-wide. Due to certain health regulations, primarily regarding the content of lead in the product, Talavera tile manufacturing has been slightly altered to accommodate itself within these regulations.

The Talavera tile manufactured by the Indians and monks was painted in blue and white patterns imitating the Chinese vases that were being imported from the Orient into Mexico.

The early Talavera tiles were painted with mostly white and blue motifs, imitating the Chinese vases that were being imported at the time from the Orient into Mexico. As the new colors were developed and introduced by the Italians, the trend caught on in "New Spain". The craftsmen there started to use multi-colored patterns which only enhanced the beauty of the Talavera tile. Little by little the Moorish influence was depicted in the Talavera tile.

Whether you make a trip to Mexico or buy your Talavera tile Mexico over the Internet, you can be certain that you have made a purchase that will last you a life-time. Many years later you will still be able to enjoy the vibrant original colors which will still look exactly like the day you brought it home.

Of course, you have to be careful not to overdo it.

Talavera tile is vey distinct. This means it works better in small doses. For example: a set of Talavera tiles decorating your countertop adds a splash of color and character to your house. Although, on the other end of the spectrum a kitchen overrun with Talavera tile will look be way too overwhelming if it's not designed the proper way.

Because the risk that too much Talavera tile can make a room look bad, some of the best motifs out there use Talavera tile along with other popular Mexican-inspired tiles to dilute all that rich color and provide a beautiful contrast . A few of these include Saltillo tile, Calaveras stone, and travertine stone. Combing one of these with Talavera tile will give your home a festive look with a hint of natural beauty and color.

Purchasing Talavera tile for your home will go easier if you talk to an experienced installer or a retailer. The possibilities with Talavera are so numerous that you may go cross-eyed trying to choose the correct designs, patterns and images. Talking to a knowledgeable installer will definitely help guide you in your decisions.