Antique Mythological Tile By Minton Hollins

An antique 8-inch clay tile by Minton Hollins & Co. (stamped to reverse) illustrated with a mythological scene from Shakespeare’s 1593 poem ‘Venus and Adonis’. Inspired by Greek mythology, the poem tells the story of Venus, the Goddess of Love, and her unrequited love for the mortal and hunter, Adonis.

This tile depicts Venus attempting to cling onto an alert Adonis who gazes at something in the distance – likely the wild boar that leads to his demise – with hound at his side and spear in hand.

We are also selling further sets of tiles from the same series. Each illustration is outline-printed and hand-coloured, framed with a decorative border that tie the tiles together.

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.

CONDITION REPORT

Good structural condition. Some discolouration to the bottom left quarter. Minor firing flaws and light crazing. Nibbles to edges. No breaks or repairs.