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This is an authentic vintage Tonalá burnished pottery decorative plate (barro bruñido), hand-crafted in Jalisco, Mexico. The center of the plate features a beautifully hand-painted traditional motif of a long-eared white deer (fawn) resting gracefully amidst desert grasses and agave plants. The wide rim is decorated with a repeating geometric pattern of dark stylized starbursts and warm terracotta ochre dots. Utilizing the historic burnishing technique, this piece was polished with a smooth stone before firing, resulting in a soft, satin-like matte sheen rather than a glassy glaze. It is a wonderful piece of mid-century Mexican folk art, perfect for Southwestern rustic decor or ceramic collectors.
Size and Weight
- Diameter: Approx. 7.75" Dia (19.7 cm)
- Height: Approx. 1.25" H (3.2 cm)
- Weight: 14 oz (0.87 lbs / 397 g)
Material
- Material: Terracotta / Native Clay, Natural Mineral Slips
Condition Description
In good vintage condition with no major damage, cracks, or large chips.
- There are a few noticeable white paint marks/scuffs on the rim and edge from age and previous display.
- Please note: There are small, crusty residue spots (likely old amber-colored sticker adhesive or aged finish wax) on the center surface near the deer. It has been left untouched/uncleaned as-is to preserve the delicate original burnished slip finish and prevent any damage to the handmade pottery.
- The underside features an unglazed, rustic bisque finish and comes with an integrated pottery loop/hole for wall hanging, currently strung with a vintage cord.
- Minor surface dust and inherent firing imperfections characteristic of handmade folk pottery are present, adding to its authentic vintage character. Sold as-is.
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