"After WWII, with the opening of the Pan American Highway facilitating travel to once remote villages and the increase in commercial air transport, there was a huge increase in tourism to Mexico. Out of this grew the production of folk art specifically for tourists, for use as souvenirs. About the same time, plastics and glass replaced the use of pottery in many Mexican homes. Consequently, huge changes have occurred in the course of the century, as folk art came to be produced more for the collector and tourist than the townspeople." Mexican Pottery in the 20th Century
The pieces in our vintage ceramics collection were made in the 20th century and represent the richness of the ceramic traditions of several Mexican states. Some styles continue to be produced and others have been left behind as folk art of all types has always been in transformation.
"The coastal state of Guerrero is primarily known for its world famous resorts, Acapulco and Zihuatanejo. The most common pottery from this state is undecorated, unglazed utilitarian ware. Throughout the central region of the state, remarkable ceramic dolls and vessels are produced. They are modeled by hand and painted with a fine brush. They are decorated with figures, flowers, animals or repeated patterns." Mexican Ceramics in the 20th Century
The busy, moving patterns of Guerrero decorating style are immediately recognizable.
"Among collectors, the state of Jalisco is highly regarded for the diversity and quality of its wares...Historically, the most important ceramic center has been Tonalá, but distinctively unique wares also come from the nearby towns, Santa Cruz de las Huertas and Tlaquepaque...in many instances, it is nearly impossible to say whether a piece comes from Tonalá or its neighbor, Tlaquepaque. For much of the century, ceramics were primarily sold in stores in Tlaquepaque, while most of the artisans lived in Tonalá. Tourist wares...are often said to be Tlaquepaque Style."
Mexican Ceramics of the 20th Century
"The state of Michoacán, which stretches west to the ocean from Mexico City, was given its name, meaning Country of Fishermen, by the Aztecs...in order to further economic development in colonial times, a Spanish bishop encouraged each village around the lake to develop their own craft. Extraordinary works in clay, copper and wood now come from the area.
The best known pottery is from Ocumicho...fantastic decorative figures of devils and Calaveras, participating in strange religious acts and scenes from village life.
The village of Patamban mainly produces finely glazed green wares. The village is best known for its piñas, large pineapple-shaped water jars. These jars are hand or mold made with numerous protrusions and a spiked crown as the lid. Through the years, as the piñas reputation has spread, the jars have become larger and more complex..." Mexican Pottery of the 20th Century
"Oaxaca is a state known for its beautiful colonial capital and diverse folk arts. Its most famous potteries surround the capital city...but other wonderful ceramics are made throughout the large state. The small villages surrounding the city of Oaxaca are home to the Teodoro Blanco family, the Aguilar sisters and the beautiful burnished black pottery of San Bartolo. Dripware or splashware is made in the city of Oaxaca..." Mexican Ceramics of the 20th Century
These vintage pieces typically used lead-based glazes and are quite fragile due to the low temperatures at which they are fired.
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