When Were Encaustic Tiles Invented?

Encaustic or inlaid tiles enjoyed two periods of great popularity. The first came in the thirteenth century and lasted until Henry the Eighth's reformation in the sixteenth century.

Where did encaustic tiles originate?

Traditional encaustic tile originated in Europe, unlike many other types of tile which have their roots in Asia. At first, to simulate the look of Roman mosaics, European craftsmen would etch patterns into stones with knives and fill in the holes with clay.

Who invented encaustic tiles?

In 1863 William Boulton patented a method of making encaustic tiles using dust clay. The patterned part of the tile was formed using one or more copper plates which were perforated to the required design. Guide pegs located the plate on the bed of the press and the hollows in the mould were filled with dust clay.