U.S. Encaustic Tile Works

Pair Antique U.S. Encaustic Tile Works Cherry Branch Majolica Fireplace Tiles, Indianapolis c. 1880s-1890s

Name: Pair Antique U.S. Encaustic Tile Works Cherry Branch Majolica Fireplace Tiles, Indianapolis c. 1880s-1890s
Brand: U.S. Encaustic Tile Works
Price: 105.00 USD
Availability: InStock

$105.00 USD

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Low stock: 1 left

Type:: Architectural tile
Era:: Gilded Age & Aesthetic (1870 - 1900)
Circa:: 1880s - 1890s
Origin:: Indianapolis, Indiana USA
Maker:: U.S. Encaustic Tile Works
Material:: Earthenware with majolica glaze
Dimensions:: 6 inch square
Condition:: Very Good (VG)
Color:: Olive-brown glaze
Decoration:: Cherry fruit and blossoming branches in relief
Maker’s mark:: Encaustic Tile Works | Indianapolis

Pair of Antique U.S. Encaustic Tile Works “Cherry Branch” Fireplace Tiles – Majolica Glazed Botanical Design

Collector’s Note

Architectural salvage and vintage tiles are prized for their craftsmanship, patina, and connection to lost buildings. Collectors love the individuality of these pieces—no two are exactly alike—and the sense of authenticity they bring to a home. Whether chosen for their patina, pattern, provenance, or simply the pleasure of holding a well‑made object, architectural salvage and tiles allow people to build spaces with history, character, and a story worth telling.

This matched pair of 6" square Victorian-era architectural tiles from the renowned U.S. Encaustic Tile Works of Indianapolis captures the essence of late 19th-century American decorative arts. Featuring a naturalistic cherry branch motif with ripe fruit, blossoms, and detailed leaves in high-relief, each tile is finished in a warm olive-brown majolica glaze that accentuates the sculptural depth and subtle sheen.

Originally designed as part of a fireplace surround—a staple of Gilded Age and Aesthetic Movement interiors—these tiles bring botanical elegance to any collection or display. The reverse shows the classic embossed maker's mark “ENCAUSTIC TILE WORKS / INDIANAPOLIS” along with typical production striations and minor old mortar residue from salvage (see enhanced photos for clarity).

In very good condition for fireplace tiles: fronts retain excellent glaze vibrancy and crisp relief with only light expected wear; sides show small chips on the branch/leaf edges from removal (not visible from the front, no cracks or major damage). These minor imperfections are common in architectural salvage and do not detract from their display appeal.

Historical Note

The U.S. Encaustic Tile Works (founded 1877, active into the 1930s) was a leading American tile producer known for innovative glazes, precise molding, and designs that rivaled European imports. Their embossed botanical tiles, like this cherry branch pattern, exemplify the firm's artistic peak during the 1880s–1890s, making them highly desirable among collectors of Victorian majolica, American art pottery, fireplace salvage, and Aesthetic Movement pieces.

Explore our Architectural & Garden collection to discover more architectural fragments, garden accents, decorative hardware, and ornamental elements that bring history and character to both interior and exterior spaces.

Just a quick heads‑up: the photos reveal details far better than text alone, so they’re worth a close review.

We share as much accurate information as possible about each item—from provenance to condition—but the images often show the nuances best. If you ever need more details, we’re always happy to help.