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Today, Belgium imports many tiles from exotic countries, a century ago Belgium exported to far away countries the beloved Belgian tile. The production of ceramic floor tiles started in Belgium around 1850, Boch Frères was the first Belgian company that manufactured inlaid tiles following the example of the English “encaustic tiles”. When their tiles were awarded at the world fair in 1862, this company grew further into one of the most important European tile producers. Soon several competing companies originated in Belgium and in the North of France. The Belgian companies exported a significant share of their production, so the Belgian tile traveled the world. Source: Mario Baeck |
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In addition to the baked ceramic floor tiles, cement tiles were also made in Belgium. It was the company Les Usines à carreaux en ciment Fiève & Cruls form Ghent that took the lead and ensured the real breakthrough of the cement tile in Belgium. They produced tiles that could compete with the old and antique ceramic tiles. Source: Mario Baeck |
Photo: M. Baeck
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The cement tiles and ceramic tiles often had the same patterns. It was therefore very difficult for the untrained eye to distinguish between these two types. So it was no coincidence that traders in building materials have included both types of tiles in their offer. |
The loss of a booming Belgian industrial branch |
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Due to the rise of linolium, balatum and the cheaper Italian tiles, most Belgian tile manufacturers closed their doors in the first part of last century. |
Photo: Impermo
Source: Mario Baeck
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Recently there has been a great interest in reclaimed antique floor tiles. Now these authentic floors are carefully removed from their houses, restored and given a new home. After more than a century they have maintained their natural beauty and pay tribute to the craftsman who produced them more than 100 years ago. |
