The Tile Book

Words by Terry Bloxham

Everywhere in the world, tiles add colour and decoration to the façades and interiors of buildings. Both functional and decorative, and found in a multitude of shapes, sizes and designs – ranging from complex geometrical Islamic patterns to figurative 17th-century Delftware – they are among the most varied ceramic products. This striking book gathers together a diverse collection of ceramic tiles, and explores their rich history, purpose and decorative qualities. An introduction traces the little-known history of tiles, from their earliest mass production in Europe in the 13th century to today, and presents the development of different types of tile. Throughout this stunning book, tiles in every variety of shape are organized chronologically to illustrate the evolution of styles. The Tile Book is luxuriously illustrated, with generous examples of individual tile types and their overall laid patterns exhibited over double-page spreads. Captions provide descriptions of each tile, with some detailing interesting locations, trends or influential designers. Interspersed in this invaluable sourcebook, are tiles shown in situ around the world and at different periods in their remarkable history. This book is a dazzling mosaic, with colours and patterns that will uplift and inspire.

Published by Thames & Hudson