subject: Terracotta Tiles | Terracotta Floor, Ceramic, Traditional Tiles | Article By Radhika Mohan | Fny [print this page] A tiny village near Chettinad churns out the most bewitching terracotta tiles.
You probably wouldnt find Athangudi on the map, even if you searched for it! This sleepy village lies near Karaikudi, in Chettinad district, and has been home to and synonymous with some of the most exquisite terracotta tiles, peculiar to the area.
These hand made flooring tiles exhibit an unparalleled charm and craft. Produced as a cottage industry, these tiles retain their polish and colour for years and are extremely long-lasting as well as cost-effective.
Crafted lovingly out of sand, baby jelly, synthetic oxides and cement, the Athangudi tiles are cast in locally available clay. The clay imparts the unusual grainy texture to these tiles. They are first burnt, and then glazed. Its easy to distinguish an Athangudi tile from its traditional line drawings, geometric patterns, muted colours as well as the flora and fauna motifs.
Each tile is almost thick and laying them on flooring requires a specialized technique. After laying these tiles, they are first cleaned with husk, and thereafter mopped with a few drops of oil to retain the sheen over the years. Its wise to be gentle with these tiles, for they are prone to scratches. They come in traditional black and white chess board patterns and earthy hues like burnt sienna, terracotta, wine and ivory.
The tiles are reasonably priced at around Rs. 20, but may be got cheaper....
