Basin 1650 - 1750

This large basin was created in Puebla, Mexico, by Talavera Poblana. The story of Talavera ceramics is rooted in colonial exchange, a fusion of indigenous and European techniques. The blue and white palette, combined with the tin-glazed earthenware, reflects the influence of Spanish pottery traditions. The central figure is an indigenous person adorned in traditional clothing. This representation raises questions about cultural identity and the portrayal of indigenous peoples in colonial art. Were these representations created by indigenous artists? How do they reflect or resist colonial power dynamics? Consider the hands that shaped this basin, each touch imbued with a history of cultural exchange, assimilation, and resistance. This is not just a vessel; it is a container of stories.