Vintage Tonalá Petatillo Ceramic Plate – Signed Lucano Family
 
Mid-20th Century Mexican Folk Art Masterpiece
 
Description & Provenance:
This 26.67 cm (10.5-inch) diameter Petatillo plate is a stellar example of Tonalá, Jalisco’s ceramic tradition, handcrafted by the Lucano family (signed "Tonala Sal Lucano"). The piece showcases the iconic Petatillo technique, where artisans painstakingly paint cross-hatched backgrounds resembling woven straw mats (petate)—a hallmark of Tonalá’s heritage since the colonial era. The central deer motif, surrounded by foliage and flowers, reflects indigenous Purépecha symbolism, often representing harmony with nature.
 
Key Features:
Authentic Petatillo Craftsmanship:
Hand-painted with millimetric precision using brushes made from dog fur, a traditional method.
Natural pigments: Earthy greens (from copper), blacks, and whites dominate, typical of this style.
 
Artistic Significance:
The deer design aligns with Tonalá’s narrative traditions, where animals symbolize cultural stories.
Signed by Santos Neri Lucano (or a family member), linking it to a lineage of renowned Tonalá potters.
 
Condition & Rarity:
No damage.
 
Historical Context:
Petatillo’s origins: Developed in 19th-century Tonalá, blending indigenous coil-building with Spanish glaze techniques.
Lucano family legacy: Active since the early 1900s, their works are collected by institutions like Museo Nacional de Arte Popular.
 
A museum-worthy piece—where every stroke tells a story of Mexican artistry.