The Piece

Hand-painted ceramic tile coaster, c. 1940s–1960s.
Maker unknown.
Glazed ceramic tile mounted on wood backing.
Unmarked.

Primary Description

This square coaster features a hand-painted geometric motif rendered in muted turquoise, pink, and ochre tones, outlined in black against a pale ground. The design is centered and symmetrical, with stepped forms arranged in a horizontal band across the tile surface.

The ceramic tile is set into a thin wooden backing, giving the piece slight lift and rigidity. Brushwork is visible throughout the painted surface, with subtle variation in color density and line weight, consistent with small-batch or individual hand production rather than industrial printing.

Historical Context

During the mid-20th century, Southwestern imagery was widely adapted into decorative objects for domestic use. Trading posts, roadside gift shops, and regional craft cooperatives produced tileware, textiles, and small objects that referenced Indigenous design languages while remaining accessible to tourists and travelers.

Objects like this coaster were intended for casual use and display, functioning as souvenirs or everyday household items rather than ceremonial artifacts. Their value lies in how they reflect mid-century American fascination with regional identity and handmade aesthetics, rather than in formal authorship.

Product Details / Materials & Presentation

→ Medium: Glazed ceramic tile with wood backing
→ Construction: Hand-painted tile affixed to a solid wood base
→ Decoration: Geometric motif in turquoise, pink, and ochre with black outlining
→ Markings / signatures: None observed

Condition + Updates

Overall condition is good.
The painted surface remains intact with light surface wear consistent with age and use. The wood backing shows minor handling marks and edge wear. No cracks or repairs were observed. No restoration has been performed.

Why It Belongs in Your Home

This piece works as a small functional object with graphic presence. It sits comfortably on a desk, side table, or shelf, where scale and pattern add interest without visual weight.

Its appeal is tactile and quiet. Rather than acting as a focal point, it contributes texture and regional character to a space, especially when layered with other mid-century or handcrafted objects.

From Viridian Eclection

Viridian Eclection presents objects with clear boundaries and honest context. Pieces are selected for material integrity and cultural placement, offered without overstatement or revision.