American High Victorian Tile: Cambridge Tile Works C1850 - Sunny Yellow Glaze

Details

Description

A Welcome Sign of Hospitality and Prosperity
This exquisite 6" square porcelain tile represents the finest of American High Victorian … Read more A Welcome Sign of Hospitality and Prosperity
This exquisite 6" square porcelain tile represents the finest of American High Victorian craftsmanship, created by the renowned Cambridge Tile Works of Covington, Tennessee around 1850. With its classical seashell and acanthus leaf motif glazed in a luminous sunny yellow "lemon drop" finish, it embodies the prosperity and refined taste of the Victorian era.
Cambridge Tile Works Heritage
Cambridge Tile Works was among America's premier regional pottery manufacturers, creating tiles that graced the finest Victorian homes across the South. Their work represents authentic American interpretation of classical European motifs, making pieces like this both historically significant and beautifully crafted.
Classical Beauty in Sunny Yellow
The seashell and acanthus leaf design speaks to the Victorian love of classical antiquity - symbols of hospitality, abundance, and refined taste. The radiant yellow glaze captures light beautifully, adding warmth and elegance to any setting. This particular shade was prized for its ability to brighten interior spaces during an era when natural light was precious.
Originally Fireplace Bound
Tiles like this were typically installed in fireplace surrounds, where they served as both protective elements and decorative focal points. The fireplace was the heart of the Victorian home, and these tiles announced the family's prosperity and sophisticated taste to every guest.
Authentic Period Character
The gentle crackling and age-related patina only add to this tile's charm and authenticity. This is exactly the kind of "shabby elegance" that restoration enthusiasts seek - genuine wear that tells the story of 170+ years while maintaining the tile's essential beauty and structural integrity.
Perfect for Restoration or Collection
Whether you're restoring a period fireplace, creating a Victorian-inspired backsplash, or simply adding to your collection of American pottery, this tile offers authentic period appeal that modern reproductions simply cannot match.
Specifications:

Cambridge Tile Works, Covington, Tennessee
c1850, American High Victorian period
6" square glazed porcelain
Classical seashell and acanthus leaf motif
Sunny yellow "lemon drop" glaze
Period-appropriate aging and crackling
This listing is for ONE TILE (second tile available separately)

A rare opportunity to own authentic American Victorian craftsmanship with documented maker attribution - perfect for the discerning collector or restoration project. See less