The Victoria and Albert Museum is set in the heart of London. It is the finest museum of decorative art and design that can be found worldwide. Established in 1852, it still embraces its primary mission to influence and essentially inspire manufacturers and designers alike through its vast eclectic collections. The museum hosts an extensive collection, perhaps the finest and most wide-ranging, of Victorian tiles in its self-proclaimed 'Tile Gallery'. If we are to look upon modern-day standards of manufacturing and design there is a definite inclination toward graceful yet decorative interiors which is quite far removed from the extravagant and ornamental Victorian style. For this reason many modern companies tend to take a classic elaborate style and transform it to suit the tastes of a contemporary homeowner.
Deciding upon tiles within the home often allows for unique and sophisticated results that add style and class to any neutral setting. Many 19th and 20th century designers including, William Morris and William De Morgan have inspired numerous collections and design of ceramic tiles, particularly 'Victorian Tiles'.
William De Morgan was a unique craftsman of the Arts and Crafts Movement. From 1859 he practiced painting, attending the prestigious Royal Academy but rapidly moved into the area of design, utilising his skills to create designs with stained glass and ceramics. His original Victorian tile and pottery designs were renowned features of the Arts and Crafts interior, and they were famously in various rooms on P&O Liners.
The most commonly recognised of William De Morgan's tile designs is the Fish Panel. It has been replicated by countless tile manufacturers and continues to be a popular design, especially for a bathroom or wet room setting. Again without the collections of the Victoria and Albert museums manufacturers could not visit the original designs and create faithful versions of Victorian tiles for the modern home. The creativity of modern designers allows Victorian tiles to appeal to a wider spectrum of consumers and adds design and flair to any kitchen or bathroom.
Modern Victorian tiles are created to encapsulate the work of artists and designers of the Victorian era but attempt to leave behind the garish and often vulgar designs that we often think of. Many companies often offer a varied range to suit your own personal tastes and also offer tiles that will suit and compliment the surrounding environment. These include Victorian kitchen tile ranges and Victorian bathroom tiles which are available as wall tiles and floor tiles. It is a wonderful compliment to the original artists and designers to know that their work is still influencing home décor and styling options. Museums are a great resource for all when looking at the past and how it might influence our modern standards. Museums are especially useful for modern-day designers, manufacturers and consumers who want to choose a Victorian tile for their next collection or new home.
