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A male maker levels terracotta clay for handmade roof tiles in a wooden tile mould inside a long drying shed.

Handmade roof tiles take shape in the shed

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Handmade roof tiles begin with a layer of terracotta clay pressed into a wooden tile mould. The maker holds a straight board across the frame, using both hands to level the surface. Clay clings to the bench, apron and nearby bucket, giving the work its tactile character. A finished tile with two small holes rests at the front.

Long shelves fill the drying shed with repeated upright tiles. Narrow gaps in the wall admit strips of daylight, picking out the orange surfaces and rough timber supports. The maker's blue striped sleeves and brown waistcoat provide a restrained contrast to the clay. The view follows the aisle deep into the building, keeping the handwork connected to the larger process.

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handmade roof tiles, terracotta clay, wooden tile mould, drying shed, wallpaper