This paper present an overview of my current research, which investigates the emergence of mosaic as an important category of mural decoration in Britain during the later 19th century. Many of the major decorative schemes for Victorian and Edwardian buildings (government, religious, private) were executed in mosaic but, until now, no comprehensive art historical study has been undertaken to chart the nature and development of this artistic revival. My paper will address some specific case studies, and seek to establish some of the motivations which prompted the commissioning of these schemes.