Rosen Family Plate

Ceramic production in Jalisco, western Mexico, dates back to the pre-Hispanic era, with potters in Tonalá using local clay to create utilitarian and ceremonial vessels. Following the arrival of Spanish missionaries in the 16th century, European techniques and motifs were integrated with traditional methods, resulting in highly sought-after ceramics that were sold in Mexico and exported to Europe during the 17th and 18th centuries.

After Mexico's independence in the early 19th century, the market for these ceramics declined, but indigenous potters continued their craft, incorporating local flora, fauna, and village scenes into their designs. By the early 20th century, neighboring Tlaquepaque became a hub for pottery shops and studios, attracting visitors from the U.S. and Mexico.

One notable style from this period is petatillo, characterized by intricate crosshatching resembling a woven palm mat, used to fill spaces around painted scenes. Balbino Lucano, a Tonalá artist, specialized in this style and opened a gallery in Tlaquepaque in 1906, passing the tradition down to family members like Augustín, Tomas, and later Javier Ramos Lucano.

Javier Ramos Lucano, active in the late 20th and early 21st centuries, became known for his painted plates and chargers featuring architectural scenes, Mexican Revolution imagery, and skeletons inspired by Guadalupe Posada prints and Day of the Dead traditions. Instead of petatillo, he used punteado (small dots) for subtle background patterns. Sadly, Javier Ramos Lucano passed away from COVID-19 in 2020 at the age of 63.