Talavera tiles are ornately patterned, hand painted clay tiles from Spain and Mexico. Talavera tiles are named after the city of Talavera de la Reina in Spain. Many potters lived in Talavera de la Reina, and the intricate, graphic designs of the tiles are influenced by the Arabic-Andalusian influence in ninth-century Spain. In the 16th century, Spanish potters moved to Puebla, Mexico, and Talavera de la Reina’s style of Talavera tiles became well-known in the city.
In the 18th century, talavera tile factories sprang up all over Mexico. Traditional pottery workshops that make traditional Talavera tiles can still be found in Puebla. The primary colors of red, yellow, green, and blue are traditionally used in Talavera tiles, with the blue usually being quite dark. Some Talavera tiles have a blue design on a cream or white background, while others are ornate and use a variety of colors. Many Talavera designs also feature rich browns and oranges, as well as deep blue outlining, borders, and bands.
Many Talavera tiles have intricate, detailed designs that include abstract symmetrical patterns and nature motifs. Birds, butterflies, sea life, fruits and vegetables are just a few of the common Talavera motifs. There are also plain clay Talavera tiles with a single color glaze, such as deep blue, golden brown, or teal. Some Talavera tiles are plain white or cream with a thin band of color around the edges or a color circle in the center.
Number of the house Talavera tiles usually have an ornate border of leaves or other motif around the edges of the tile, as well as a number of the address on each tile. Mural Talavera tiles can turn a plain wall into a work of art. Talavera tiles are popular in kitchens and bathrooms, and there are a variety of Talavera round and rectangular sinks available. There are also Talavera accessories available, such as switch plates and vases.