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Description
Up for auction is a vintage tile, probably used on a fireplace mantel. It is a nice relief of an androgynous male or female (I really cannot tell which sex it is).
Providential Tile Works was founded in Trenton, New Jersey in 1885 by Joseph L. Kirkham, James Robinson and C. Louis Whitehead. Issac Broome was their first designer and modeler. Their products were glazed tiles, like this one, both plain and in relief. Tiles were made for mantels, hearths, and well decoration in relief and intaglio. They were founded in 1885 and the company failed in 1913.
Providential Tile Works was founded in Trenton, New Jersey in 1885 by Joseph L. Kirkham, James Robinson and C. Louis Whitehead. Issac Broome was their first designer and modeler. Their products were glazed tiles, like this one, both plain and in relief. Tiles were made for mantels, hearths, and well decoration in relief and intaglio. They were founded in 1885 and the company failed in 1913.
- Dimensions are 2 1/8 “ square
- Relief side appears to be in good condition aside from a little crackling in the glaze and several dark dots in the hair of this young person
- Backside of the tile has probably the original cement mortar which I will leave to the new owner to remove
- The backside of the tile, which does not have cement resembles other tiles I have seen for this company (embossed checkerboard pattern). Photo of this pattern found in the book: American Art Pottery, A collection of pottery, tiles and memorabilia 1880-1950 by Dick Sigafoose, page 164.
- There are a few little nicks on the top edge of this tile, but overall it appears in good condition for it’s age
- The last 4 pictures show the sides of the tile
- I would guess this piece is from the early 1900's
- The name of the company is in the top 1/3 of the backside of the tile-- PROVIDENTIAL
1st class shipping is $3.50 to winning domestic bidder. If you live in Texas, will need to pay state sales tax. Email me any questions. If you like what you see here, please take the time to check out the other vintage items I have up for auction. Thanks!