Preliminary identification

Uriarte Talavera Majolica Ceramic Plate, c. mid-20th Century

Photo reference

2 uploaded photos

Overview

A beautiful, hand-painted Mexican Talavera ceramic plate featuring a vibrant, traditional multi-color pattern of cobalt blue, yellow, green, and orange. Made by the historic Uriarte workshop in Puebla, it showcases the classic thick tin-glaze (majolica) technique that has defined the region's pottery for centuries.

Story

Spanish monks brought Moorish pottery secrets to Puebla in the 16th century, blending European techniques with indigenous clay. This plate represents that centuries-old fusion, hand-painted in a workshop operating since 1824.

Maker / Origin

Established in 1824 by Dimas Uriarte, Uriarte Talavera is one of the oldest and most prestigious producers of authentic Talavera pottery in the world. Located in Puebla, Mexico, the workshop has preserved traditional colonial-era techniques, using only local clays and natural mineral pigments to maintain its official Denominación de Origen status.

Condition & Value

The plate shows minor glaze pops and typical manufacturing imperfections characteristic of hand-thrown pottery. There is a small glaze flake or chip visible on the unglazed foot ring on the reverse, but the front display face appears vibrant and intact. Minor wear on the foot ring reduces value slightly but is expected for its age.

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Sold comps, value drivers, and venue guidance pulled from recent auction results.

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Market Analysis

Comparable demand stays strongest where maker, originality, and venue confidence line up. Broader examples still trade, but the range tightens quickly when provenance, condition, or selling lane fit is missing.

Value Drivers

  • Strong maker attribution with credible period details
  • Better-than-average condition for the category
  • Broader demand rises when presentation and finish feel intact

Concerns

  • Decorative-only demand limits the ceiling
  • Surface wear or missing provenance can compress the range fast
  • Regional sale lanes often underperform specialist venues

Best Venue

Specialty auction or a focused dealer with buyers already in this lane.

Comparable Sales

5 comps
Regional auction· Jun 2024
$1,280

Signed example with light edge wear and original frame.

Dealer archive· Mar 2024
$1,450

Comparable format with stronger provenance and cleaner surface.

Marketplace sale· Jan 2024
$980

Smaller related piece with visible craquelure and trimmed margins.

Estate platform· Oct 2023
$1,150

Period match with softer condition and weaker subject matter.

Auction result· Aug 2023
$1,375

Close market lane comp with similar material and presentation.