Object Description
A collection of nine 3-inch Art Nouveau ceramic tiles by Linthorpe Pottery, designed by Christopher Dresser (1834 – 1904), famed 19th century British designer. Dresser is considered the first industrial designer, a pivotal figure of the aesthetic movement as well as a pioneer of the British Art Nouveau style.
Dating from the late 19th century, these tiles feature a matching floral pattern design in varying shades of dark red and golden yellow. They will make a striking feature tile panel in an interior, usable as decorative tiles or a stylish Art Nouveau splashback. We are also selling another set in the same style.
While Linthorpe are known for their vases and sculptural items, their tiles are a rarer find. An individual blue toned Linthorpe tile of similar style and of the same scale to those in this collection is displayed in the V&A.
Linthorpe Pottery
Linthorpe Pottery – also known as Linthorpe Art Pottery – was established in 1879 by local businessman John Harrison and the iconic 19th century British designer, Christopher Dresser. Dresser’s intention was to produce wares not previously attempted in Europe. At the same time, he wished to alleviate local unemployment and by 1885, Linthorpe was the largest pottery in the locality.
Artist Henry Tooth was appointed as pottery manager, followed by Richard Patey. Both experimented with a range of firing and glazing techniques to produce wares with an impressive high glaze and vibrant colour. Such was their beauty that Linthorpe pottery earned the attention of Princess Alexandra of Wales who purchased an example at the 1885 London International Exhibition.
The pottery had a relatively short run, closing in 1889 following Harrison’s death.
Each tile: 7.9 cm square, 1.3 cm deep