English ceramic tile wainscot from the late Victorian period.
The Victorians loved elaborate patterning, much of it drawn from the landmark publication of Owen Jones’ “Grammar of Ornament” in 1856. These tiles, produced with an embossed pattern combining naturalistic and Art Nouveau floral design elements, are a good example from the 1890’s.
The British potteries that produced ceramic tiles shipped them all over the globe. Many millions of pieces were shipped to the US and used in American homes. These particular tiles were shipped to the jewel in Queen Victoria’s crown, India. Specifically, to northwest India where they were used in a Jain temple in the city of Bikaner in the Great Indian Desert. I took this photo there early last year. I have seen identical tiles used for fireplace surrounds and in bathrooms in the US.
Historic ceramic tile and sources for reproduction tile are covered in detail in “Restoring Your Historic House, The Comprehensive Guide for Homeowners.”
The 720-page award-winning and best-selling hardcover book is available in bookstores nationwide and from online retailers.
Signed and personalized copies are available directly from Scott Hanson in our shop, https://yourhistorichouse.com/shop/.
Your local bookstore can order copies from W.W. Norton.
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