Hand-Painted Botanical Ceramic Tiles by Josef Frank, Meissen, Germany, 1960, Set of 9

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A wonderfully decorative and exceptionally charming set of nine hand-painted botanical ceramic tiles, produced by Somac in Meissen, Germany, circa … Read more A wonderfully decorative and exceptionally charming set of nine hand-painted botanical ceramic tiles, produced by Somac in Meissen, Germany, circa 1950–1960. Each tile presents an individual floral composition, beautifully painted by hand in fresh, expressive colors against a soft white ground. Rather than a repeating pattern, the collection forms a small botanical gallery, with each tile depicting a different flower or flowering plant. Among the most striking motifs are a vivid blue gentian, a delicate lady’s slipper orchid, cyclamen, buttercups, and other wild and garden flowers. The hand-painted execution gives the tiles a particularly appealing artistic quality. Visible brushwork, subtle variations in color and individual painter’s marks emphasize their handcrafted character. Seen together, the nine compositions have the charm of botanical illustrations translated into ceramic. Their exuberant floral vocabulary is particularly appealing in the context of mid-century European design and the renewed appreciation for botanical decoration associated with Scandinavian interiors and designers such as Josef Frank. No attribution to Frank is intended; the comparison refers solely to the decorative spirit and use of colorful botanical imagery. Measuring approximately 15 x 15 cm (5.9 x 5.9 in.) each, the tiles offer wonderful possibilities for contemporary interiors. They can be displayed together as a decorative panel or, perhaps even more beautifully, incorporated individually among simple white tiles. Scattered across a kitchen backsplash, bathroom wall, bar, or other tiled surface, they can create distinctive botanical accents while allowing the nine original tiles to animate a considerably larger architectural area. The reverse of the tiles bears impressed German manufacturing marks, including “Meissen” and “Germany.” A rare and highly decorative collection combining German mid-century craftsmanship, botanical artistry and exceptional versatility for contemporary interior design. Dimensions per tile: 15 x 15 cm / 5.9 x 5.9 in. Thickness: approximately 4 mm / 0.16 in. Condition: Eight tiles are in good vintage condition with age-appropriate signs of use. One tile has a visible repaired crack. Please refer to the photographs for details. See less