Talavera Ceramic Frog

Talavera Ceramic Frog

Talavera ceramic, about 3-1/2" x 3" x 1-1/2", with hang hole underneath.

This colorful ceramic frog was handcrafted in Mexico in the Talavera style of pottery making. It includes a hang hole for wall mounting, but we at Fern's Garden prefer to use it as a desktop pen holder (check out the "detail" view). The striking pottery 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 (F) degrees, then painted and baked again in an 1800 (F) degree oven.

MX Imports is deeply committed to the communities and artisans that create their products. They pay 20% - 25% above "market" value to create a sustainable business for its artisans in Mexico as well as in the hopes of bringing up the standard of living of the community at large.