About this piece
back to topA 19th century William de Warenne First Earl of Surrey tile by Minton.
This 5 inch square tile has a deep blue and yellow chequered shield over a rich rouge ground. Produced by Minton circa 1850.
In heraldry the design is known as ‘Chequy Or and Azure.’ First adopted around 1118 by William de Warenne, 2nd Earl of Surrey, following his high-profile marriage to Elizabeth of Vermandois.
The shield is surrounded with scrolls in a deep golden yellow, characteristic of Minton tiles of the period.
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.
