18th Century Lead Tile, Talavera Spain

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An 18th-century Talavera lead tile, square in form, decorated with a tin-glazed naïve depiction of a simple castle motif and … Read more An 18th-century Talavera lead tile, square in form, decorated with a tin-glazed naïve depiction of a simple castle motif and four stylized trees. The primitive rendering reflects the rustic character of provincial Talavera ware. The castle is balanced by the evenly spaced, almost symbolic trees. Executed on a white ground, the design reflects the charming folk style associated with Talavera production of the period. The back is inscribed “Talavera, Espagne 2nd Half 18th C.”

The Spanish city of Talavera de la Reina is known as the City of Pottery. Moors brought techniques and designs of Islamic pottery to Talavera in the 12th century. By the 16th century, Talavera de la Reina was enjoying a Golden Age of pottery. Talavera’s Golden Age continued through the 17th century as its potters cultivated a high style that often depicted scenes of gallantry, hunting, and allegories. See less