Try this place. If they don't have it, there's another place I know. They don't have a website, but I have a phone number. Try this one first, and see what you can do, with reference to finding a match:

Here is a link that might be useful: Thisoldtile.com

Bill, thanks. I obviously don't know the name or brand of the tile we have, and I can't send them a sample, either, so not sure how they could figure it out. When the plumber broke out the old tile, I didn't even think to save any of it.

I'm just wondering if my wood panel idea would work for now. If it looks good, then fine -- we leave it as is. If it looks bad, we can fix the tile later, I would think.

Give them a call, or email them with the pictures you've posted. That color and that style cove base was extremely common back in the 40's and 50's, and there may be a COUPLE of different companies that would match it. My bet would be on one of two-- either Wenzel or Mosaic (the company, not the style-- went out of business in the early 60's).

They don't have any kind of contact information on there unless you pay $14.95.

I would make or look for a grate. Here is an example from Van Dykes restorers (this one is too small, but just to get the idea)

Here is a link that might be useful: Grate

This is what I arranged with the contractor: They are going to order only the gray wall tile. I will try to track down some base tile that will work; if I can't, they'll just leave a small hole at the bottom and try to figure out another solution.

The idea of an ornamental grate is interesting. I'll look into it.

Here's the other place I told you about:

Greenwich Tile & Marble Co.
Tel. (800) 470-9636
Fax (203) 869-5545

They specialize in discontinued American Olean, who also made that same kind and color of base, but they also carry other old and discontinued tiles.

Try looking at the website of American Restoration Tile Co. They specialize in making new tile that looks like old tile. I found them very easy to get information and samples from and more difficult to place an order with!

Here is a link that might be useful: American Restoration Tile Co.

fern, I contacted that place and they basically said they wouldn't be interested in selling me any tile. (!)

You know, to vent a bit, this is making me less happy with the bath place we are using. I don't know why I have to run around trying to figure out what kind of tile I need and where to get it.

Anyway, this is what I bought today (tiles, .90 each; I bought a dozen):

Side view:

My plan is to paint these (sand first, use primer, etc.). Then the tile person can cut them to fit. Does this have any chance of working?

Forget sanding and priming. Use ceramic stain, and that'll work without prep. You can get it at any crafts store.

Bill, that sounds good, but I'm going to go with the paint so I can match the color better. I have found one that is almost exact.

Also, all the craft stores are pretty far from where I live/work, but the BM store is just down the street.