Rare Minton & Co Round Neoclassical Encaustic Tile

Description

An interesting ø28.5 cm (11 and ¼ inch) round neoclassical encaustic tile by Minton & Co. (stamped) depicting a sea nymph or mermaid. This unusual tile is a rare find and possibly unique; unlike anything we have seen from Minton & Co. before

Captured in striking white glaze across a deep blue backdrop, the mythological figure with two scaled tails for legs admires her hair in a handheld mirror. Included is the stand as pictured, creating an instant display piece in an interior or collector’s cabinet.

Minton & Co.

To this day, Minton & Co. are considered one of the major pottery and porcelain manufacturers of British history.

Established in 1793, the company was founded by Thomas Minton (1765 – 1836) in Stoke-on-Trent. Until 1845, the pottery manufacturers traded under various styles before adopting the ‘Minton’ name.

When Thomas Minton died, the business passed to his son, Herbert (1793 – 1858) who expanded business by entering into partnership with Michael Hollins. The ‘Minton & Co.’ name was dedicated to encaustic and inlaid tiles, while the ‘Minton, Hollins & Co.’ partnership was for printed, painted or majolica wall tiles.

Minton exhibited at trade exhibitions across the globe, establishing a firm reputation for excellence in pottery and earthenware.