The Hindu : New Delhi News : Antique tiles: latest collectables

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Monday, Jul 07, 2008
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New Delhi

Antique tiles: latest collectables

Bindu Shajan Perappadan

TReasure Tiles: Antique tiles that will be on display in the Capital from August 8.

NEW DELHI: People For Animals is bringing the country’s first ever exhibition of valuable handmade and painted antique decorative titles to the Capital this coming month.

Slated to be inaugurated by Bollywood actor Aamir Khan at a five-star hotel here on August 8, the three-day exhibition is a must-see for art collectors.

The collection, “Treasure Trove,” represents a historic venture to unearth the ceramic traditions which have long beautified our most remarkable monuments.

The 10,000 tiles that date back to a century were made and painted by hand. The rare and matchless collection is a combination of beauty and value.

“Treasure Trove provides a chance to learn, enjoy and profit from a hitherto undiscovered art form. Don’t miss this unique opportunity to own a thing of beauty and joy forever,” says PFA chairperson Maneka Gandhi.

Identifying antique tiles

Ms. Gandhi advises, “Look at the back of a tile for signs of wear and tear or any markings about a company and country of manufacture. Another way to tell an old title from a new one is the thickness. Although this is not always true, antique tiles are usually heavier and thicker than newly manufactured tiles. Lastly, look at the front of the tile.”

“In addition to subtle wear and tear the glaze and design should help you to distinguish new from old. Old glazes, which used oxides and leads, are lustrous and have more depth than their newer counterparts. Design motifs may also help give you hint as to age,” adds Ms. Gandhi.

According to a PFA release, antique titles are miniature works of art and history. Small in size yet with a huge design impact, they have become the new decorating accent for those who wish a unique home installation or interesting collectible.

Sourced from all around the country, this collection of over 10,000 tiles features Chinese, Islamic, Portuguese, Dutch, English and native tiles that have graced our palaces and monuments since early times.

In order to enable the maximum participation from the public the PFA collection is modestly priced.

“Pick up a tile today and watch it appreciate,” says the release.

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