Just like Stoke on Trent in the UK, Delft in Holland is a town once famous for its pottery. Although you might not know the term ‘Delftware’ you’ll have seen the style. Traditionally blue and white, it’s quite chunky and still often used for planters, bulb bowls and tiles. Modern Delftware often has a pattern of windmills, tulips and other flowers to reinforce its Dutch origins.
Introduction to Delftware Pottery
The china trade in Delft really took off in the 17th and 18th centuries, when Chinese porcelain started to arrive from China. Porcelain was then unknown in Europe, and Dutch potters were fascinated by the white colour and delicate structure of the new material.
Gradually, and partly as a result of Italian influence, manufacturers started to use tin-based opaque white glaze in an attempt to make the home-grown product look as white as true porcelain. The blue and white colourscheme and some of the decoration were tributes to or even direct copies of Chinese style.
Early examples often had hybrid designs, with plate rims divided into sections in the Chinese style but the middle filled with European-style patterns. The product we know today as ‘Delftware’ was gradually beginning to emerge. The tin glaze was used up to the mid-19th century, when production processes changed. Pieces made prior to the 1850s are known as ‘antique Delftware’ as they used the old process.
Delftware Products For Your Home
Delftware wallpaper, Mind the Gap.
This wallpaper (above and main image) shows a collection of antique Delftware, the traditional blue and white pottery made in the 16th century. Perfect for cheering up a kitchen or north-facing living room. Was £229 for three rolls now £183.20, available in a choice of colourways from Mind the Gap.
Although it was originally created as a cheaper and more accessible alternative to Chinese porcelain, Delftware quickly became the finest available in Europe. Heads of state including Louis XIV of France and Queen Mary Stuart became enthusiastic exponents, ordering special pieces to their own design. More and more extravagant items were manufactured, including the iconic ‘flower pyramids’ – tall, complicated pyramids of pottery with openings to display dozens of tulips.
Country Delft Cornelia tiles, Original Style
These tiles are designed to offer a perfect balance between traditional Delft artistry and modern style. The design combines classic Delft elements with a more modern twist, making it ideal for any decor. £2.80 each, available from Original Style.
Wilding Hare square tile, Marlborough Tiles
A leaping hare on an 11 by 11 cm tile. Each tile is hand painted to order in Delft blue, then hallmarked and signed on the reverse by the artist. These tiles are crafted by hand using traditional techniques, resulting in an organic finish, rich with character and natural imperfections. £34.66 each, available from Marlborough Tiles.
Delftware fell briefly out of favour in the 18th century when European potters discovered how to make their own porcelain. However, it had a revival in the 19th century when, for the first time, it was valued as Dutch pottery rather than Chinese imitations. It’s enjoyed a steady popularity ever since, and still adds colour and style to the contemporary home. A few Delftware bowls on a windowsill look lovely filled with spring bulbs such as hyacinths and tete-a-tete daffodils, and the containers will add colour all year round.
Delft tulipiere rectangular vase, Casa by JJ
A tribute to traditional Delftware, this blue and white porcelain brick vase with floral detail is perfect for displaying tulips and will make an unusual focal point for your room. Was £75 now £60, available from Casa by JJ.
