Mintons
China Works, Stoke-on-Trent, Staffordshire, England 1870-1918
This is a transfer or decal tile with an image of John Hancock's (former
governor of Massachusetts) former home. The house was built in 1737,
and torn down in 1863, to make way for a new wing of the State House.
John Andrew wrote about the home in 1857 (edited): "Governor Hancock's
house, on Beacon Street, fronts to the south and presents a quaint and
picturesque appearance, embosomed, as it is, with shrubs, evergreens,
trees, and flowers. It is built of hewn stone, and raised about thirteen
feet above the street, with the ascent being through a garden."
This
tile is well over 100 years old. There is crazing throughout and some
minor edge wear. But overall in very good condition, considering its
age. It measures 6" x 6" x 1/2" thick.