Reclaimed English Terracotta Tiles, 33 SF
Handmade and wood-fired centuries ago, these reclaimed French terracotta tiles tell a unique story. Durable and designed for flooring, they can withstand high-traffic areas when properly sealed and cared for.
French reclaimed terra cotta tiles possess a history and authenticity that few floors can match. Centuries ago, these tiles were made by digging up natural French clay deposits, which artisans shaped into hand-made wooden molds. After drying, the tiles were extracted from the molds and placed in rows to dry under the sun. They were then stacked inside wood-burning kilns and fired to over 1100 degrees Celsius for at least three days, with artisans continuously monitoring the flame and adding more fuel as needed.
The kilns varied in temperature, resulting in color variations. Lighter-colored tiles were placed in the hotter areas, while darker tiles were positioned in cooler areas. This process created a spectacular color range, as valued today as it was over 200 years ago.
These terracotta tiles are reclaimed antiques, not newly manufactured. The handmade nature means no two are alike, with variations in color, size, and thickness contributing to their unique character.
Initially made for flooring, these tiles differ from the "Parefeuille" tiles commonly sold today, which were used on roofs and ceilings. The patina from an authentic French reclaimed terra cotta floor tile square or hexagon is foot-worn and valued. Its hues, variations, patina, and uneven surfaces make this flooring distinctive and rare.
The tiles bear the “B.C.M Rowley” stamp on the backside. “B.C.M.”, which stands for British Commercial Monomarks, was based on the invention devised and developed by William Morris. Established in 1925, the company launched a service to provide a London Post Office Box address and mail forwarding service to its customers. Each business was to have its own unique code and use the letters “B.C.M.” along with an identifying name to easily identify the manufacturer (Rowley in this case) and provide a method of correspondence.
Rowley Brothers Ltd. was a tile and brick manufacturing company formed by brothers Tom and William Rowley in 1889, in Chesterton, Staffordshire, England. The company also owned and operated The Metallic Tile Co., in Newcastle-under-lyme, Staffordshire as well as the Hanford Tileries. The company remained in the family until 1980 when it closed its doors.
Found in England, circa 1930
Tiles are approximately 6” W x 6” D x 3/4” thick
The lot includes 134 pieces
The lot is approximately 33 square feet in total
Tiles have been brushed off, but not scrubbed or chemically treated. Once installed, these tiles could be treated if a more consistent look is desired.
Good overall condition. Small chips, losses, light staining, and surface wear, consistent with having been used and reclaimed.
A penetrating sealer is recommended, not only to protect the tiles but to darken and richen the colors.
Suitable for indoor floors, most wall applications, wet areas, and exterior patio flooring
Available for pick up, local delivery, and nationwide shipping.
Request a shipping quote here.
Request a trade discount here.
Handmade and wood-fired centuries ago, these reclaimed French terracotta tiles tell a unique story. Durable and designed for flooring, they can withstand high-traffic areas when properly sealed and cared for.
French reclaimed terra cotta tiles possess a history and authenticity that few floors can match. Centuries ago, these tiles were made by digging up natural French clay deposits, which artisans shaped into hand-made wooden molds. After drying, the tiles were extracted from the molds and placed in rows to dry under the sun. They were then stacked inside wood-burning kilns and fired to over 1100 degrees Celsius for at least three days, with artisans continuously monitoring the flame and adding more fuel as needed.
The kilns varied in temperature, resulting in color variations. Lighter-colored tiles were placed in the hotter areas, while darker tiles were positioned in cooler areas. This process created a spectacular color range, as valued today as it was over 200 years ago.
These terracotta tiles are reclaimed antiques, not newly manufactured. The handmade nature means no two are alike, with variations in color, size, and thickness contributing to their unique character.
Initially made for flooring, these tiles differ from the "Parefeuille" tiles commonly sold today, which were used on roofs and ceilings. The patina from an authentic French reclaimed terra cotta floor tile square or hexagon is foot-worn and valued. Its hues, variations, patina, and uneven surfaces make this flooring distinctive and rare.
The tiles bear the “B.C.M Rowley” stamp on the backside. “B.C.M.”, which stands for British Commercial Monomarks, was based on the invention devised and developed by William Morris. Established in 1925, the company launched a service to provide a London Post Office Box address and mail forwarding service to its customers. Each business was to have its own unique code and use the letters “B.C.M.” along with an identifying name to easily identify the manufacturer (Rowley in this case) and provide a method of correspondence.
Rowley Brothers Ltd. was a tile and brick manufacturing company formed by brothers Tom and William Rowley in 1889, in Chesterton, Staffordshire, England. The company also owned and operated The Metallic Tile Co., in Newcastle-under-lyme, Staffordshire as well as the Hanford Tileries. The company remained in the family until 1980 when it closed its doors.
Found in England, circa 1930
Tiles are approximately 6” W x 6” D x 3/4” thick
The lot includes 134 pieces
The lot is approximately 33 square feet in total
Tiles have been brushed off, but not scrubbed or chemically treated. Once installed, these tiles could be treated if a more consistent look is desired.
Good overall condition. Small chips, losses, light staining, and surface wear, consistent with having been used and reclaimed.
A penetrating sealer is recommended, not only to protect the tiles but to darken and richen the colors.
Suitable for indoor floors, most wall applications, wet areas, and exterior patio flooring
Available for pick up, local delivery, and nationwide shipping.
Request a shipping quote here.
Request a trade discount here.
Handmade and wood-fired centuries ago, these reclaimed French terracotta tiles tell a unique story. Durable and designed for flooring, they can withstand high-traffic areas when properly sealed and cared for.
French reclaimed terra cotta tiles possess a history and authenticity that few floors can match. Centuries ago, these tiles were made by digging up natural French clay deposits, which artisans shaped into hand-made wooden molds. After drying, the tiles were extracted from the molds and placed in rows to dry under the sun. They were then stacked inside wood-burning kilns and fired to over 1100 degrees Celsius for at least three days, with artisans continuously monitoring the flame and adding more fuel as needed.
The kilns varied in temperature, resulting in color variations. Lighter-colored tiles were placed in the hotter areas, while darker tiles were positioned in cooler areas. This process created a spectacular color range, as valued today as it was over 200 years ago.
These terracotta tiles are reclaimed antiques, not newly manufactured. The handmade nature means no two are alike, with variations in color, size, and thickness contributing to their unique character.
Initially made for flooring, these tiles differ from the "Parefeuille" tiles commonly sold today, which were used on roofs and ceilings. The patina from an authentic French reclaimed terra cotta floor tile square or hexagon is foot-worn and valued. Its hues, variations, patina, and uneven surfaces make this flooring distinctive and rare.
The tiles bear the “B.C.M Rowley” stamp on the backside. “B.C.M.”, which stands for British Commercial Monomarks, was based on the invention devised and developed by William Morris. Established in 1925, the company launched a service to provide a London Post Office Box address and mail forwarding service to its customers. Each business was to have its own unique code and use the letters “B.C.M.” along with an identifying name to easily identify the manufacturer (Rowley in this case) and provide a method of correspondence.
Rowley Brothers Ltd. was a tile and brick manufacturing company formed by brothers Tom and William Rowley in 1889, in Chesterton, Staffordshire, England. The company also owned and operated The Metallic Tile Co., in Newcastle-under-lyme, Staffordshire as well as the Hanford Tileries. The company remained in the family until 1980 when it closed its doors.
Found in England, circa 1930
Tiles are approximately 6” W x 6” D x 3/4” thick
The lot includes 134 pieces
The lot is approximately 33 square feet in total
Tiles have been brushed off, but not scrubbed or chemically treated. Once installed, these tiles could be treated if a more consistent look is desired.
Good overall condition. Small chips, losses, light staining, and surface wear, consistent with having been used and reclaimed.
A penetrating sealer is recommended, not only to protect the tiles but to darken and richen the colors.
Suitable for indoor floors, most wall applications, wet areas, and exterior patio flooring
Available for pick up, local delivery, and nationwide shipping.
Request a shipping quote here.
Request a trade discount here.