Decorative tiles have adorned the façades and interiors of ancient Persian temples, Islamic mosques and pleasure palaces, medieval castles and cottages, Victorian churches and shops, and modern civic and domestic structures. Tile Art is an informative volume that traces the rich tradition of these sumptuous tiles and fully illustrates their varied designs. The author deals lucidly and extensively with various manufacturing and decorating processes, as well as with the most significant designers and potteries in Britain, on the Continent and in the United States. Dutch Delftware tiles are described in detail, as are Portuguese azulejos, Italian maiolica panels, Scandinavian stove surrounds, British and American Arts and Crafts examples and French and Dutch Art Nouveau creations. The contributions of artists and designers such as William Morris, Walter Crane, Vanessa Bell and Louis Comfort Tiffany are noted, and the technical advances pioneered by such companies as Mintons, Pilkingtons, Low and Maw are described in relation to the increasing sophistication in tile design during the 19th century. -- Inside jacket flap.