Technique: Glazed ceramic decorative tile
Year: ca. 1955 - 1965
Size: 10.8 x 10.8 cm (tile) | 17 x 17 cm (including frame)
Signature: Monogrammed 'FVI' within the illustration lower right
Condition: In excellent condition. Mounted on a linen background inside a simple wooden frame.
Edition: Original early edition of this characteristic collector's tile.
This beautiful and highly characteristic decorative tile is an original design by the renowned Flemish artist Frans Van Immerseel (1909–1978). Van Immerseel, celebrated as a master stained-glass artist and the designer of the famous Cat Parade (Kattenstoet) in Ypres, held a lifelong fascination with Flemish folklore and medieval satire. The tile illustrates a classic scene from the epic masterpiece Van den vos Reynaerde (Reynard the Fox) where Tibert the Cat (left) delivers King Nobel's official summons to the cunning fox dressed in a monk's habit (right). Reynaert feigns a pious, hospitable welcome while already plotting a cruel mouse trap for the greedy cat. The corners of the tile feature traditional ox-head motifs (ossenkoppen). The print beautifully captures the lively, distinct illustrative style Van Immerseel acquired from his legendary mentor, Alfred Ost. A wonderful literary and folkloric collector's piece.
