A superb and rare example of émaux
ombrants art nouveau the technique widely known
for its use in portraits here the same clarity
and definition brought to art nouveau floral
design. Almost certainly designed by George
Cartlidge the design having fabulous flow and
movement. A magical tile the finished tile
surface being very smooth and near flat it
produces a kind of holographic 3D effect.
Making such tiles was an artistic and skilled
process from start to finish. The outstanding
quality of the modelling and moulding is clear,
in addition the glazing had to be consistent but
perhaps most of all the firing had to be perfect
to achieve best results. The glaze being both
highly translucent and yet rich in colour would
create unsightly pooling if for example the tile
was not level in the kiln.
These were the most high-tech tile products
of the era and were very expensive approaching
double the price of ordinary majolica tiles,
including those in multicolour, and almost as
expensive as tube lined tiles. The most
practical of highly decorative tiles the very
low relief and smooth surface making the tile
easy to clean and avoiding the damages
associated with most high relief tiles.
Verso very clean, light staining near the
edges, usual Sherwin marks and locks.
