Tile 1881 - 1885

This tile was produced by J. and J. G. Low Art Tile Works, an American company operating from 1877 to 1903. The tile’s abstract, repetitive pattern invites reflection on the social and cultural contexts that elevated decorative arts during the late 19th century. The Arts and Crafts movement, which gained traction on both sides of the Atlantic, emphasized craftsmanship and the value of handmade objects in response to increasing industrialization. Art tiles became a popular feature in homes and public buildings. Companies like Low Art Tile Works democratized access to art, making it an integral part of everyday life. The tile’s design, a grid of textured ovals, reflects both the era’s fascination with geometric patterns and the Arts and Crafts movement’s commitment to accessible, aesthetically pleasing design. By studying the company’s history, design catalogs, and the broader context of the Arts and Crafts movement, we can further understand the tile's social and cultural significance.