Minton & Co. Ecclesiastical 6-Inch Encaustic Tile
By Minton
Located in Wormelow, Herefordshire
An interesting mid-19th 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 4th 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...
Category
Mid-19th Century Antique British Mounted Objects