Border Tile 1881

This is a ceramic border tile made by J. and J. G. Low Art Tile Works in the United States, around the turn of the 20th century. The tile features a repeating motif of stylized, fan-like shapes, reminiscent of botanical forms. The Low Art Tile Works, founded in Massachusetts, were known for their innovative techniques in ceramic production. Their work emerged within a broader Arts and Crafts movement, and their tiles were often incorporated into architectural settings. The Arts and Crafts movement was very concerned with the social role of art. It was motivated by a critique of industrialization, and sought to revive handcraft traditions. Tiles like these were used in homes and public buildings, a demonstration of how art was integrated into everyday life. The study of decorative arts like this one relies on a wide range of historical resources. Trade catalogs, architectural records, and design publications can all shed light on the social and cultural context in which these objects were made and used.