#4990. Decorative Ceramic Facade of Maison Greber: Art and Functionality in Early 20th Century Architecture

Before us is the unique facade of Maison Greber in Beauvais, France, representing an exquisite example of decorative art from the early 20th century. The building, located at 63 rue de Calais, is a striking demonstration of ceramic materials application in architecture.

The facade features rich decorative ceramic tiles in various shades. The upper part of the facade displays the inscription "MANUFACTURE DE GRES," indicating the building's purpose as a stoneware manufacturing workshop. Below, one can notice the inscription "DECORATION ARTISTIQUE" and the owner's name "CH. GREBER".

Particularly notable is the relief on the right, enclosed in an arched frame, depicting a craftsman at work in a ceramic workshop (dated 1911). This element not only adorns the facade but also tells the story of the building's purpose through artistic imagery.

The central window with white frames is bordered by vertical decorative strips with geometric patterns in orange and black. The lower part of the facade is designed with a checkerboard pattern of dark and light tiles. All of this creates an impression of thoughtful artistic unity, where architecture and applied art merge, demonstrating the mastery of ceramic production right on the building's facade.