This ceramic mural features 104 tiles created by the Third Form (Year 8) of 2023/24 and is inspired by the 350 year anniversary of the Royal Mathematical School at Christ’s Hospital. Each student has re-interpreted a section of a global map by Joan Blaeu. King Charles II was presented with ‘The Klencke Atlas’ by Johannes Klencke, featuring maps by Joan Blaeu, on his coronation in 1660 – this may well have inspired his desire to prepare students with the skills to navigate the world. Using Blaeu’s original as a template, the students were encouraged to use their imagination and previous research on ancient maps to form their own unique depiction. Each tile was hand rolled in clay, scoured with the design and texture, painted with cobalt oxide, and finished with a white crackle glaze.

To find out more about the Royal Mathematical School at Christ’s Hospital click here