several matching original late 19th century antique american victorian era majolica glazed interior residential fireplace tiles designed and fabricated by the providential tile works, trenton, new jersey. the lot of victorian era tiles were salvaged from a chicago residence demolished long ago. the 1880's tiles measure 6 x 6 inches. priced for the lot. joseph kirkham, james robinson and c. lewis whitehead organized providential tile works in 1885. around this time they hired modeler isaac broome away from trent tile, their only potential local competitor in trenton, new jersey. like trent, providential produced dust-pressed, embossed tiles in mechanical, fly-wheel presses that were then colored with translucent glazes that accentuated the relief designs. principally made to adorn fireplace mantels, many tiles were produced in a contiguous series designed to surround a fireplace opening was the fashion in upscale homes in the late 19th century. when isaac broome left providential in 1890, scott callowhill took his place as head modeler. he had come from england where he had worked for a number of prestigious establishments including the royal worcester works and doultons. soon he was joined at providential by his two sons, hubert and ronald, both ceramic decorators. the management of the company remained fairly consistent during its 28 year history. its doors closed in 1913.