Attractive vintage ceramic tile wall plaque depicting historic St. George’s Church in Hempstead, New York, based on an architectural illustration by Long Island artist Henry R. Diamond (1896–1989).
The 6 x 6 inch glazed ceramic tile features Diamond’s detailed black architectural linework with selectively applied green, blue, yellow and orange color. The black illustration appears to have been commercially transferred or screen printed onto the ceramic, with the color decoration appearing separately hand applied. The overall production is consistent with the Screen Craft-style commemorative and local-history ceramic tiles popular during the mid-20th century, although no specific manufacturer attribution is being made.
Likely dates from approximately the 1960s–1970s, with circa 1970s being the most plausible estimate.
The name “HENRY R. DIAMOND” appears within the original architectural design. This is part of the reproduced image and is not being represented as a separately hand-signed piece.
The tile retains its vintage cork backing and original hanging fitting, indicating that it was originally designed to function as an individual wall plaque. It is additionally presented in a substantial vintage dark wood frame with attractive rounded corners and period metal hanging hardware.
Subject is identified directly on the tile as:
St. George’s Church
Hempstead, N.Y.
Approximate measurements:
Ceramic tile: 6 x 6 inches
Overall frame: 9 x 9 inches
Condition is very good overall for a vintage decorative object. The glazed ceramic face presents very nicely with strong linework and attractive color. The vintage wooden frame shows scattered age-related scratches, small marks and normal surface wear consistent with age. The original cork backing remains attached to the reverse of the tile.
For identification and verification purposes, the framed piece was carefully disassembled so the ceramic tile, its edges, cork backing and construction could be examined and photographed, and it was then carefully reassembled. The original decorative paper backing on the reverse of the frame was opened during this process and is now secured in place with a few small pieces of tape. This is confined to the back of the frame and does not affect the appearance or display of the piece from the front. Photographs document the examination and reassembly process as well as the present condition of the backing.
Please review all photographs closely, as they form an important part of the condition description.
A charming piece of Long Island architectural and church history with crossover appeal to collectors of Henry R. Diamond, Hempstead memorabilia, historic churches, vintage ceramic tiles, architectural art and mid-century commemorative ceramics.
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