The exquisite 'trick the eye' tiled panel discovered in Leeds

Workmen discovered this beautiful decorative tiled panel when they were carrying out renovations to 10 Bond Street in the city centre back in 2009.

It is a trompe l'oeil, a painting technique using realistic imagery to "trick the eye".

A stone built arch or window opening reveals a view to blue skies and an olive tree. Entwined within its branches are the names of some of the great china houses; Wedgewood, Worcester, Minton and Doulton.

The top corners may depict the tools of the china manufacturing process as pottery calipers are seen on the right. The left-hand corner has unfortunately sustained damage.

In the foreground examples of Grecian style pottery and Classical sculpture are displayed.

In March, 1852 the following advertisement appeared in the Leeds Mercury; "The West Riding China and Earthenware Warehouse and Cut Glass Manufactory, 10 Bond Street, Leeds. Purchasers will find the stock of this establishment of a very superior character, the most complete and extensive in the district. Some beautiful specimens of Parian Statutary and ornamental articles, as produced for the late Great Exhibition. Paper Mache from the well known manufactory of Messrs. Jennens and Bettredge, in every variety, including a choice assortment of the new and beautiful gem'd goods, which are very suitable for presentation. Some choice specimens of bronzes. Table lamps for oil, candles and camphine. Gasaliers or pendants for the dining and drawing room, stained glass entrance lanterns & c. of elegant design and finish, considerably reduced in price. The ornament stock of bohemian glass, alabaster & c. very choice and extensive. Filterers warranted of the most approved manufacture. Matchings of every description promptly attended to. S.T. Newington, 10 Bond Street, Leeds." This was Samuel Tompsett Newington, late of London.

Later, in the late 1870s and 1880s similar adverts were appearing in the Leeds Mercury on behalf of W. Hodgson who was occupying the premises of number 10 Bond Street at that time. The business was called "Hodgson's Showrooms" which also sold a selection of china and glassware.

The tiled panel is likely to have been installed by one of these proprietors.

The photo is published courtesy of photographic archive Leodis, which is run by Leeds Library & Information Service. They also run heritage blog The Secret Library Leeds, which provides a behind the scenes look at the Central Library and highlights from its special collections, including rare books hidden away in the stacks.

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