Discovery at Fydell House

A stunning example of Delft tiles has been uncovered at Fydell House during restoration works, revealed beneath the old gas fire. These beautifully hand-painted tiles offer a glimpse into craftsmanship and storytelling.

Delftware—tin-glazed earthenware made in the Netherlands and Britain—rose to fame in the 1600s, with the most iconic pieces crafted in Delft, South Holland. In England, production began around 1550 and flourished in cities like London, Bristol, and Liverpool.

As their popularity grew, Delft tiles became a sought-after feature in homes, adorning chimneypieces, staircases, corridors, and kitchens. Designs ranged from everyday scenes—men on horseback, ships, children playing—to biblical stories and floral motifs.

Though the painters weren’t always trained artists, they used clever techniques like pouncing (transferring designs with charcoal dust) and copying engravings or illustrations to bring these tiles to life.

This discovery adds another layer of history to Fydell House, connecting us to the artistry and life of the past.