Spanish Tin-Glazed Polychrome Tile

Made in Spain, circa 1850 Antique Spanish ceramic tiles like these are fast becoming rarer and harder to find. Adding in the fact that these tiles are of the highest quality makes their scarcity even more dramatic. These border tiles in a spectacular polychrome cuenca depict a satyr (probably the god Pan) flanked by griffins rampant. Pan, the Greek god of eating and drinking was often depicted engaged in these pursuits. Some of the tiles are marked on the reverse with the inscription "Medalla De Plata - Barcelona 1888 Fa. de J. Jimenez Isquierda Ca. Talleres - Al sitio de Las Tres Casaa Trianon Deposito Ancora Sevilla". This refers to the maker's distinguished Silver Medal performance at Spain's first international exposition, one of the most famous and glorious of its era. These wonderful tiles come from Norman Karlson's personal collection. His research information is shown in a photo here. 5 1/2" x 5 1/2" x 3/4" thick Very good condition; varies per tile