Moravian Pottery
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The Moravian Pottery and Tile Works, a United States National Historic Landmark, is maintained as a "working history" museum by Pennsylvania's County of Bucks, Department of Parks and Recreation.
Handmade tiles are still produced in a manner similar to that developed by the pottery's founder and builder, Henry Chapman Mercer (1856-1930). Mercer was a major proponent of the Arts and Crafts movement. While collecting American antiques was in and of itself unique during Henry Mercer's time, his vision transcended mere collecting. He set out to revive the native Bucks County craft of pottery-making in the late 1800s. His attempts failed, but he turned his attention to hand-crafted tiles instead and became a leader of the Arts and Crafts movement of the early 20th century.
The Moravian Pottery and Tile Works, completed in 1912, produced tiles and mosaics for floors, walls and ceilings. Mercer's artistry and abilities produced floor tiles for the rotunda and halls of the Pennsylvania State Capitol, depicting 400 scenes in the Commonwealth's history. His tiles adorn buildings throughout the United States and the world. He directed the work at the pottery from 1898 until his death in 1930.
