A 37sq ft Boch Frères period ceramic c.1900
Lovingly returned to its turn-of-the-century splendour, this rare ensemble of Boch Frères Maubeuge tiles exudes delicate charm and timeless grace.
At its heart are elegant 6.7-inch field tiles, framed by a grand border and a daintier half-size companion, arranged in duplicate to create a harmonious rhythm. Each handmade tile bears the hallmarks of fine craftsmanship—soft yet precise colours, and an undulating border motif that lends a lyrical quality to the composition.
Included in the photo gallery are scans from the original 1900 Boch Frères catalogue presenting the tiles, the catalogue itself is a glimpse into the refined tastes of the Belle Époque. These historical documents accompany detailed photographs of a randomly selected floor section, capturing the subtle interplay of pattern and palette.
Ideally suited for:
– An intimate, sunlit porch
– A charming powder room or guest bath
– A decorative tile “carpet” framed in antique oak or modern porcelain
Having undergone high-temperature firing, the tiles are not only lovely but enduring—equally suited for interior warmth or the outdoor elements, be it golden summer heat or the quiet frost of winter.
Surface Coverage: 37 sq ft
– Field Tiles: ~75 tiles - 23.3 sq ft
– Large Border: ~20 tiles - 11.2 linear ft
– Small Border: ~45 tiles - 25.3 linear ft
Note:-
Our antique tiles were originally handmade in single or two tile molds. Pre-computer fabrication these molds were machined by hand & the colour slips to create the tile were mixed by measure and eye. When firing the tiles, the kiln temperatures of c.1,100F degrees could also be variable. The result of this production process is that tiles made during this period of non-automation often display subtle size & thickness variations and there can be tonal variations in colors, all of which add to their charm and uniqueness. When photographing a floor, we always take a random section so that it is representative of the whole in tones and patina.
A rigorous quality control during the restoration process will include in the sale any tiles with groutable small chips and edge nibbles, expected of tiles more than 100 years old, but include for free any with larger defaults as rejects, which the tiler can then use for offcuts.
Can we help?
If you can provide a technical drawing, or a simple sketch with key dimensions, we are happy to assist in evaluating and recommending the best layout of the floor in your area of choice. Click here for more details