Parefeuille from Provence French Reclaimed Terra Cotta Tiles - PA276

Dimensions: 6 3/4" x 13 1/4" x  3/4" thick

In-Stock: 433 SF - FOB West Hatfield, MA   

Provenance: Provence, France

Cost - $26.00/SF

The quintessential parfeuille from Provence is a historical building trademark in this region. Hand-molded and fired in wood-burning kilns over 150 years ago - this flame-licked clay tile has beautiful color variation due to the differing degrees of heat received depending on their position in the kilns.  An authentic Provençal home 150 years ago often installed the parefeuille on ceilings in-between wooden beams or rafters.  This is why the surface texture of the parefeuille reclaimed terra cotta tile does not have a build-up patina like in a French reclaimed terra cotta hexagon tile floor - for it was never walked upon.  However - the surface texture is still a marvel to behold.  One sees the impressions made by French artisans using various tools to hand mold the tiles into their famous rectangular form.  Left outside to dry in the Provençal sunshine - before being placed into the wood-burning kilns - many a cat or dog would leave their telling footprint as they trotted along  - letting their curiosity lead the way.  

Color way and Description:  PA276 is a parefeuille that resembles a watercolor painting of soft pastel hues.  The various colors from clay to butter to bloom are soft and elegant. The rectangular form is exacting with artisanal age detail and a wonderful 3/4" thickness for most installations.  Procuring this beautiful lot at a hefty 588 sf allows for an expansive installation which is rare to find. Partnering this French reclaimed terra cotta tile parefeuille with our 18th Century French Oak Flooring in parquet de Versailles QUEEN'S WHITE allows for a perfect union of textures and colors between this wood and clay tile floor.

Recommended Sealer after Installation:  Akemi Stone Impregnation for French Reclaimed Terra Cotta Tile Flooring 

Cleaning and Maintenance:  Vacuum, then clean with Black Soap (Savon Noir) to disinfect, maintain, protect and enhance patina.