The Tile Book: History, Pattern, Design

A dazzling visual history of ceramic tiles from around the world and across the centuries.

This striking book gathers together an extensive collection of ceramic tiles from around the world and explores their rich history, purpose, and decorative qualities. For centuries, tiles have been used for both functional and aesthetic purposes on the fac¸ades and interiors of buildings. Found in a multitude of shapes, sizes, colors, and designs―ranging from complex geometrical Islamic patterns to figurative seventeenth-century delftware―tiles are among the most varied ceramic products.

This luxurious source book, curated by the award-winning studio Here Design, is organized chronologically and features tiles in every variety of shape, displaying each individual tile type and its overall laid pattern in vivid color. Tiles are also shown in situ around the world and at different periods in their remarkable history. The Tile Book is a dazzling mosaic, with colors and patterns that will uplift and inspire.

320 color illustrations

Here Design is an award-winning design studio whose books include An Anarchy of Chillies, Herbarium, The Grammar of Spice, and Spectrum: Heritage Patterns and Colors.

Terry Bloxham is Assistant Curator of Ceramics and Glass at the Victoria and Albert Museum.