This beautiful Talavera plate with an Om design measures 6 inches across. Each one is a unique, hand-painted piece of art. It is a beautiful decorative piece of art that looks just as good on a table, counter top or on a wall - a hanger is provided on the back. (Not suitable for serving food).
The striking ceramic known as "Talavera" is over 800 years old, originating in the Talavera de la Reina region of Spain. At that time, it was called "Majolica."
Known for its beautiful glaze work, Talavera was imported to Mexico in the 16th Century where it was used to decorate monasteries and churches with tiles and religious figures. Talavera is not turned or tin glazed - the pigments are brushed onto raw or unfired glaze.
Each piece takes between 12 and 15 days to complete. It must set for 16 to 18 hours before being liquefied and poured into molds. The pieces are then hand polished and fired for six hours at 1500 degrees, then painted and baked again in an 1800 degree oven.
All of our Talavera products are the result of a tireless search for the highest quality products by Rod Contreras, an SRF member who lives and works in Southern California. Rod works closely with a small family of artisans in Dolores Hidalgo, Guanajuato, in Central Mexico, who produce these striking pieces of art. A part of Rod's working mission is to help the artisans he works with create a sustainable business community and improve their standard of living.
