Hi Jonathan,

Thank you for contacting Mearto with your appraisal inquiry.

The Flint Faience Tile Company was a prominent American tile manufacturer operating in Flint, Michigan, from 1921 to 1933. Originally a subsidiary of the automotive firm AC Spark Plug Company, which was itself a division of General Motors, Flint Faience was created to repurpose the factory’s kilns, initially designed for spark plug production. When these kilns weren’t in use, the company saw an opportunity to manufacture decorative tiles, capitalizing on the booming market for decorative arts in the early 20th century.

Flint Faience tiles are known for their vibrant colors, innovative glazes, and distinctive designs, which drew inspiration from various influences, including Spanish, Native American, and Art Deco styles. The tiles were used widely in commercial and residential spaces, often installed in fireplace surrounds, bathrooms, and kitchens. They became especially popular during the Art Deco movement of the 1920s and early 1930s for their bold designs and rich color palette.

The Great Depression eventually impacted demand, and in 1933, the company ceased tile production to focus solely on its automotive components. Today, Flint Faience tiles have a strong if modest presence at auction, with pictorial tiles usually being sold individually and realizing a few to several hundred dollars each whereas geometric or more plainly patterned tiles - such as the one you have - bringing less than $50 at auction.

Based on the photos and information provided, and subject to examination, this is:

A vintage faience tile
made by the Flint Faience Tile Co., Flint, Mich.
In earthen tones with stylized designs, impressed on the back and framed.
8 by 8 inches
CONDITION: This tile appears to be in good condition.
PROVENANCE: Acquired at auction
$30-50*
*represents a fair-market value for auction purposes; retail or asking price may vary.

Please let us know if you have additional items to appraise, or questions/concerns, and thank you again for using Mearto.
~ Delia