Malibu Persian Tile Rugs

The artistry of hand-crafting Persian tile rugs is centuries old.

An exquisite example of tile rugs awaits visitors in the loggia of The Adamson House, a 1929 historic landmark located in the beachfront town of Malibu, California.  At first glance this original 18-foot-long Persian style runner might be mistaken for its wool counterpart. Designed by ceramic artist William Handly of Malibu Potteries, the intricate details and colors are the result of executing the cuerda seca (dry line) technique — a method of combining different color glazes on terracotta tile and a style indicative of Malibu pottery. Although this method of tile-making is centuries old, it was first introduced in Malibu in the 1920′s. Malibu Potteries was one of many companies to produce tile using clay from the hills.  Their pottery encompasses the tradition and artistry of hand-crafting tile.

Persian tile rugs, like this one from ceramic tile maker Tierra-y-Fuego, are crafted using the same methods as the original Malibu artisans. Tile “rug” designs like these have been traditionally incorporated in Mediterranean and Spanish revival house styles throughout California where they are viewed as historic motifs.

This detail of the central medallion and a section of the field shows the vibrant color in these tile “rugs.” Sometimes, designs such as these are also used on walls.

(Sources: History of Malibu Tile, Tierra-y-Fuego)

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