19th C American Pair of Isaac Broome Portrait Tiles – Framed, C. 1885

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This pair of Isaac Broome portrait tiles—crafted in Trenton, NJ in the late 19th century—offers rare sculptural detail and historical … Read more This pair of Isaac Broome portrait tiles—crafted in Trenton, NJ in the late 19th century—offers rare sculptural detail and historical significance.

Pair of Isaac Broome Portrait Tiles – Framed, c. 1885
A beautifully preserved pair of ceramic portrait tiles modeled by Isaac Broome, one of America’s earliest and most influential ceramic sculptors. Created circa 1885 for the Trent Tile Company and Providential Tile Works of Trenton, New Jersey, these tiles reflect Broome’s mastery of relief modeling and his deep engagement with classical and narrative portraiture.
• The sepia-toned tile depicts a young child in profile, rendered with delicate curls and lace collar detail.
• The blue-toned tile features a crowned figure with flowing hair, evoking mythological or regal themes.
Both tiles are mounted on velvet backings and housed in ornate gilt frames, enhancing their sculptural depth and period charm. Broome’s tiles were often used to adorn fireplace mantels and architectural panels in upscale homes during the Arts and Crafts movement.


• Isaac Broome (1835–1922) was the first chief modeler for Trent Tile Company and later joined Providential Tile Works.
• His work was featured at the Centennial Exhibition in Philadelphia (1876) and is celebrated by institutions like the New Jersey State Museum and the Potteries of Trenton Society.
• These tiles likely originated from a private East Coast collection and reflect Broome’s signature style—often marked discreetly in the clay or underglaze.

These tiles are not just decorative—they’re sculptural relics of American ceramic history. A rare opportunity to own signed work from a master of the medium. See less