Mintons Shakespeare tile, c1873, designed by John Moyr Smith, King Lear

Description: Henry IV Part One. Young Hal & Falstaff at the Boar’s Head in Cheapside, from Moyr Smith’s Shakespeare tile series.For sale is an exceptional ceramic tile illustrating a dynamic scene from Shakespeare's "Henry IV, Part 1." Illustrated with the deft skill of John Moyr Smith, this artwork captures the intrigue and vitality of the historical play. Smith's adeptness at rendering the characters' expressions and the scene's atmosphere with minimalistic yet expressive strokes showcases his remarkable talent. This tile is a creation of Minton’s Ceramics, dating back to the late 19th century, a period heavily influenced by the Art Nouveau movement. It embodies the distinctive characteristics of this artistic style, including flowing lines, flattened visual perspectives, and a blend of asymmetry with classical elements, positioning it as a standout representation of the era's artistic flair. John Moyr Smith, who was born in Glasgow in 1839, significantly contributed to the Minton’s catalogue from the 1870s, focusing on depictions of literary scenes from various sources such as Shakespeare, Arthurian legends, Aesop’s Fables, and Chaucer. His contributions are a testament to the Art Nouveau style, known for its 'whiplash' curves and unique aesthetic qualities. A significant number of Smith's original designs for tiles are preserved in the Minton Archive, which is part of the Stoke-on-Trent City Archives. Minton's, founded in 1793 by Thomas Minton in Stoke-on-Trent—the hub of the UK's ceramic industry—evolved from a maker of domestic tableware to a renowned producer of tiles and architectural decorations. By the mid-19th century, Minton’s had established such a formidable reputation that it was commissioned to produce the tiled flooring for the United States Capitol. Under the guidance of Herbert Minton, Thomas’s son, the company embraced new production methods and fostered collaborations with artists and designers, leading to a period of significant creativity and innovation. "Henry IV, Part 1" tile, John Moyr Smith's tiles, especially those depicting scenes from Shakespeare's plays, are highly sought after by collectors and enthusiasts of both Shakespearean memorabilia and Art Nouveau ceramics. While the exact rarity can vary based on the specific scene, condition, and production numbers, tiles from this series are considered collectible items. To determine its precise rarity and value, it would be beneficial to consult with antique ceramics experts or review recent auction results for similar pieces. This particular scene, being part of a celebrated collection and produced by the esteemed Minton’s, could indeed be a rare find, appealing to collectors and admirers of historical and literary art.

Price: 79 GBP

Location: Market Harborough

End Time: 2024-11-05T11:08:05.000Z

Shipping Cost: 35.55 GBP