Cobalt Mandala

Name: Cobalt Mandala
 
Type: Salt & Pepper shakers
 
Year: Late 20th century to early 21st century
 
Set: yes 
 
Mark: None - Mark suggests traditional Talavera-style from Mexico
 
History: This charming pair of ceramic salt and pepper shakers is decorated in a traditional Talavera-style, a type of majolica pottery with strong Spanish and Mexican colonial roots, particularly associated with Puebla, Mexico. The cobalt blue hand-painted floral mandala pattern, along with the high-gloss white glaze, is characteristic of this iconic regional ware.
 
 
The shape—rounded body with narrow base—and the hole patterns (2-hole for salt, 3-hole for pepper) are typical of modern functional tableware. The rubber stoppers on the base suggest contemporary production, most likely post-1980s.
 
 
The partially visible stamp on the reverse is reminiscent of Mexican artisan workshop marks, though too faint for full attribution. However, the motif, palette, and glaze work align well with the mid-range export Talavera-style ceramics that became especially popular in the late 20th century for both home and tourist markets.
 
 
These shakers are collectible for their cheerful folk design and utilitarian charm, ideal for casual rustic table settings or as part of a decorative Talavera display.
 
Flaws: none