Medieval Tile Designs

Little remains of the decorative ceramic tiles that once paved the floors of medieval churches and cathedrals. Abraded by time and use, stolen by collectors, or covered by new flooring, these handsome ornamental paving stones (also known as "encaustic tiles") have become rarities. This practical, inexpensive, and comprehensive archive — originally published in the mid-19th century — has preserved many of those ancient designs for future generations. It represents an invaluable source of design inspiration for permission-free use by today's artists and craftspeople. Adapted largely from tile motifs that once adorned English churches in Winchester, St. Cross, Romsey, and Warblington, 146 handsome images display a host of characteristically medieval patterns — crosses, churches, fleur-de-lis, stylized plant forms, mythological creatures, stars, abstract and geometric figures, and other authentic elements. These rich and evocative designs can be used to enhance a host of art and craft projects: wood burning, leathercraft, and stained glass work; fabric painting, ceramics, enameling, stenciling, or any other project calling for unique and powerful attention-getters.