NTERNATIONAL ERAMICS

THE CHINESE AND SPANISH INFLUENCE IN THE MEXICAN PRODUCTION

Though the collection of international ceramics includes examples from Japan, China, Holland, England, and Spain, it was decided to emphasize only those from China and Spain since these varieties were specially strain influences in the production of Mexican ceramics.

The museum features two types of Spanish ceramics. The oldest includes pieces from Valencia which date from the 15th and 16th centuries. These bear a metallic luster and a Moorish design which clearly reflect the Arab influence in Spain. This variety is known as Manises ware (which refers to the name of the region where the technique flourished).

Another variety is from the region known as Talavera de la Reina in Toledo. The pieces on display are from the 17th and 18th centuries and almost all bear the characteristic blue design over a white background and feature popular renaissance motifs.

Chinese ceramics on display in the museum (primarily porcelain) are examples that were brought to Mexico from the 16th to the 18th centuries.

Ancient Chinese ceramics include three varieties: one that was produced for the Emperor and ruling class; another for internal consumption and a third variety of porcelain for export which was manufactured to satisfy international demands. (Most pieces in the Franz Mayer collection belong to this last group).

Pieces for export were divided into two groups. One of these conserved Chinese forms and designs even though they were produced for the West. The other is known as the East India Company variety and is composed of those pieces made in China which followed European design. These were brought by maritime companies that traded with China by way of the Pacific.

The East India Company variety was manufactured for a Mexican market and various coats of arms (belonging to those families or institutions that commissioned them) can be appreciated on each piece.