Glazed earthenware tile late 17th century.

This large tile, 53 cm in diameter, was almost certainly part of a castle stove. It is made of glazed terracotta and depicts a figure and the Gothic script "Blaub," which appears to translate as Blaise. The figure holds a book in his right hand and a crucifix entwined with a serpent in his left—these are indeed the attributes of the saint. The reverse side shows a pinkish-buff clay, and remnants of terracotta supports that would have secured the tile to the stove are visible. The work is likely Swiss or Southern German, perhaps Alsatian, and dates to the late 17th century. 530 x 155 x 18 mm. No repairs.