Minton & Co. Ecclesiastical 6-Inch Encaustic Tile

An interesting mid-19^th century ecclesiastical 6-inch encaustic clay tile by Minton & Co. (stamped).

Dating to circa 1850, this antique encaustic tile is an excellent example of 19th century Minton works. It has moderate surface wear, and the reverse is in very clean condition clearly bearing the Minton name and marked ‘29’.

The design itself is of ecclesiastical theme, displaying a Christogram (also known as a Chi-Rho or Chrismon symbol). This is one of the earliest symbols of the Christian faith, used as far back as 4^th century Ancient Rome by Emperor Constantine the Great who used the mark on shields as part of military symbolism.

The symbol is a monogram of the Greek letters ‘Chi (X)’ and ‘Rho (P)’ which together form the first two letters of ‘Christ’ in Greek. It is flanked by the Greek letters Alpha and Omega, symbolising that Jesus is the beginning and the end.

Steeped in history, this antique English tile is an exceptional collector’s piece, providing an instant talking point for any display.

Minton & Co.

To this day, Minton & Co. are considered one of the major pottery and porcelain manufacturers of British history.

Established in 1793, the company was founded by Thomas Minton (1765 – 1836) in Stoke-on-Trent. Until 1845, the pottery manufacturers traded under various styles before adopting the ‘Minton’ name.

When Thomas Minton died, the business passed to his son, Herbert (1793 – 1858) who expanded business by entering into partnership with Michael Hollins. The ‘Minton & Co.’ name was dedicated to encaustic and inlaid tiles while the ‘Minton, Hollins & Co.’ partnership was for printed, painted or majolica wall tiles.

Minton exhibited at trade exhibitions across the globe, establishing a firm reputation for excellence in pottery and earthenware.