An outstanding arts & crafts tile and a
real rarity, fabulous bright colours, wonderful
flowing design. Rich brown clay, most unusual,
the colour of rich brown earth, not dust pressed
but moulded from natural clay. The perfect foil
to the brilliant greens and yellows of the
flowers and foliage, rarely are natural colours
used so effectively.
Setting this tile apart, for there are
several but scarce similar enamelled tiles
known, is the indented decoration in the plain
clay areas. An essential part of the overall
design it relieves what otherwise would be plain
areas and has the form and colour of leaf litter
adding further to the natural appeal. It really
is a most appealling and charming tile.
Made of very durable materials as witnessed
by the condition after well over a century,
solid semi-vitrified brown clay and high fire
glass-like enamels.
Quite possibly earlier than the indicated
date although the condition and absolute all
round excellence seem incompatible with earlier
dates but could be 1860s. For sure an excellent
example of work, amazing in its day, expensive
to produce and pre 1885 as it was made at the
Broseley works.
In saying mint condition excused is only the
most minor and minute indiscretions of the
enameller and tiny chips to the back edges.
Verso perfectly clean, embossed Maw & Co,
Broseley, Salop.
