About this piece
back to topA 19th century Duke of Norfolk coat of arms tile by Minton.
This 5 inch square tile shows the unaugmented coat of arms of the Howard family, the noble family of the Dukes of Norfolk. The tile is blazoned as red shield with a bend between six white crosses. The six crosses are each pointed at the bottom. The shield is bordered in a deep yellow, characteristic of Minton tiles of the era.
With origins dating back to 13th century England, the Howard family name has survived centuries of persecution. Despite frequently losing their titles to royal confiscation for treason, fines, and being barred from sitting in parliament, the family repeatedly managed to return to their prominent position.
In 1846, Queen Victoria and her husband, Prince Albert, visited Arundel Castle. The 13th Duke of Norfolk internally remodelled the castle in time for her visit which is likely the source of these tiles.
The family today is represented by Edward Fitzalan-Howard, the 18th Duke of Norfolk. Residing in Arundel Castle, Sussex, the Duke still serves as the Earl Marshal. In this role, he personally managed the state funeral of Queen Elizabeth II in 2022 and the coronation of King Charles III in 2023.
An alternative is available with just the crosses and bend, without the shield.
Minton & Co
Thomas Minton opened the first Minton & Co factory in the 1790s, becoming one of the most popular pottery and porcelain manufacturers of the 19th century.
Based in Stoke-On-Trent, Minton was at the centre of British pottery, specialising in earthenware, bone china and Parian porcelain.
In 1845, Thomas Minton’s son, Herbert, partnered with Michael Daintry Hollins to establish the tile-making arm of the business. Today, Minton and Hollins tiles are highly sought after thanks to their beautiful patterns and unique history.
