William Gladstone ended his long career in British politics in 1894, after 12 years of cumulative time spent as Prime Minister, and four years before his death in 1898. This commemorative tile was likely made in honor of his passing, based on a photographic portrait by H.S. Mendelssohn. Using a technique known as Émaux ombrants, Sherwin and Cotton manufactured this type of tile by flooding an intaglio molded tile in a deep translucent glaze so that the intended image seems to emerge, dimensionally, from a richly saturated shadow. Sherwin and Cotton were renowned for their mastery of this technique, producing portrait tiles of exceptional naturalism and clarity.

This tile has some crazing throughout, which is consistent with the age and style of tile. (Close up photo is included, enhanced to show condition). Tile is marked “Made by Sherwin and Cotton at their works in Hanley in the County of Stafford 1898” on the verso. An excellent addition to any Victoriana collection.

SKU: 21V17114