Vintage Tlaquepaque Bird Design Coffee Cup – Mexican Folk Art Ceramic
 
Hand-Painted Collectible (Mid-20th Century
 
Description & Origin
This charming 5.72 cm (2.25") tall × 11.08 cm (4.36") wide ceramic cup originates from Tlaquepaque, Jalisco, Mexico—a region celebrated for its vibrant folk pottery since the 19th century. The cup features a hand-painted bird motif, likely inspired by local fauna like hummingbirds or parrots, rendered in bold greens, blues, and earthy tones against a cream or terracotta slip background. Its dimensions suggest use as an espresso or traditional Mexican café de olla cup, blending utility with artistry.
 
Key Features
Authentic Tlaquepaque Craftsmanship:
High-fired earthenware with a glossy glaze, typical of the region’s bruñido (burnished) technique.
Bird symbolism: Represents freedom or spiritual themes in Mexican folk art, often linked to pre-Hispanic traditions.
 
Design & Condition:
Floral or geometric accents frame the bird, echoing Tlaquepaque’s signature petatillo (woven-mat) patterns.
Minor crazing or glaze wear expected due to age, but structurally intact—rare for thin-walled vintage pieces.
 
Provenance:
 
Likely crafted between 1940s–1970s, when Tlaquepaque workshops supplied both local markets and tourists.
 
Display
Perfect for curio cabinets or as part of a Mexican folk art tablescape.
A sip of Mexican heritage—where every brushstroke tells a story.