A. Alvarez Cuenca-Style Cuerda Seca Ceramic Plate

This is a decorative ceramic plate created using the cuerda seca (dry cord) technique, which utilizes raised Manganese or wax lines to separate different colored glazes during firing. The piece is attributed to A. Alvarez, a recognized name in contemporary Spanish art pottery, specifically from the Seville or Toledo regions. Physically, the plate features a central six-pointed star (Star of David) enclosing a stylized pomegranate or floral bud. The color palette is rich and diverse, consisting of emerald green, deep burgundy, mustard yellow, pastel blue, and white, all set against a matte black textured background that mimics the look of traditional Mozarabic or Mudéjar tilework. The craftsmanship is high, evidenced by the precise application of the glazes and the symmetry of the intricate geometric and botanical motifs along the rim. In terms of condition, the plate appears to be in excellent contemporary state with no visible chips, cracks, or crazing. The glossy finish of the colored glazes provides a sharp contrast to the matte black relief, a characteristic hallmark of high-quality Cuenca-style ceramics. The style reflects a neo-Mudéjar influence, drawing on historical Spanish-Islamic architectural and decorative traditions, likely dating from the late 20th century to the early 21st century.