WhatsApp usToday, ceramics from Delft are highly collectable. The classic blue and white patterns are immediately recognisable as both a fine antique and Dutch souvenir. The roots of the design, however, come from the Far East and tell a fascinating story of globalisation and early modern culture.
Above: ceramics from Delft including a gourd vase (1665-75), hand bell (1770), Daniel Marot flower vase (1690), tobacco jar (1800) and covered vase (1764-88)
This article will explore the history of the Delftware style, as well as their value and how best to care for delicate ceramics.
Delftware Origins: Global Trade & Gunpowder
In the mid 17th century, world trade began to emerge as a dominant turning point in society. Foreign imports and exports saw a rise in the merchant classes, especially in sea faring nations like The Netherlands.
Above: detail from Entrance to a Dutch Port by Willem van de Velde II, 1665
One of the main ports of call was China, who provided both tea and the porcelain required to drink it elegantly. The exotic nature of these products made them a status symbol, encouraging European craftsmen to compete for their share of the market.
At this point in history, The Netherlands was in the midst of a golden age of painting and this creative genius was reflected in the production of ceramics. The manufacturing process of Italian maiolica (tin-glazed earthenware) was used, as Europe had not yet discovered the secrets of Chinese porcelain.
Above: a selection of Delftware inspired by Chinese designs, from left to right – Jacob van der Kool plate (1722-57), wall plaque (1730) and Pieter Adriaensz Kocks plate (1710-20)
Gunpowder is behind the popularity of Delft as a hub of the ceramic industry. In 1654, an accidental explosion destroyed many breweries and the premises were vacated. Craftsmen moved in and many named their shop after the prior brewery.
Delft blue was not produced by just one manufactory, but was a collective output from craftsmen across the city. Today, there are two main manufacturers, Royal Delft (De Koninklijke Porceleyne Fles) and De Delftse Pauw.
Above: detail from View of Houses in Delft, Known as ‘The Little Street’ by Johannes Vermeer, 1658
Why Is Delftware Blue & White?
Much of the imported porcelain from Ming dynasty China was blue and white. These pieces were produced directly for European markets, many examples created for the Dutch were known as Kraakware, named after the carrack (Portuguese ship) that transported them overseas. Kraak ceramics typically feature a border divided into decorative panels, as seen on the dishes below.
Above: a selection of Kraakware dishes from China and Japan, 17th / 18th century
The Ming Dynasty fell in 1644 and so copies were frequently relied upon as the imports ceased in quantity and quality. Delftware was an earthware replica of these styles, using a white glaze to imitate the white porcelain base.
Traditional motifs found on Chinese blue and white porcelain include symbolic flowers such as peonies and chrysanthemums, as well as animals and figurative scenes.
Above: detail of a Delft copy of a Chinese design on a charger plate, 1650-65
From Tiles to Tulipieres
Delftware comes in many shapes and styles. Delft Blue ceramics can be found in the following genres:
- Vases
- Tulipieres (Tulip Vase)
- Dishes
- Charger Plates
- Figurines
- Centrepieces
- Tiles
- Jugs
There are also unique and unusual items and decorations such as wine coolers, bottles, tankwards and plaques.
Above: from left to right – a Delft birdcage (18th century), a flower vase (1700-22) and a firedog with the monogram of Prince William III (1690-1700)
Delft can be both practical and ornamental. One of the best known tourist pieces is the Delft clog, though very few people know that the tradition of ceramic shoes dates back to the 17th century. There are many examples of heeled boots and dress shoes from the Delft manufactory, as well as busts and decorative, royalist pieces – especially those related to William of Orange.
Above: a selection of shoes from Delft, from left to right – shoe with bow and Chinese decoration (1660-75), one of a pair with traditional blue and white decoration (1750-75) and a red, blue and green floral shoe (1720)
Delftware Display
Many Delft dishes and plaques are displayed on walls using brackets or hooks. The failure of plate display mechanisms is a common reason for damage, whether this is due to a fall from height or chips and abrasions from the areas touching the display mechanism. Glues from adhesive hooks or metal additions for hanging purposes may also discolour and stain the plate over time.
Above: an 18th century Delft plate in the collection of the Metropolitan Museum of Art, displayed on a perspex stand
Museums and galleries would opt for a see-through perspex display stand, as this is not likely to damage the edges in the way a traditional metal stand would. Clear perspex also allows for a good view from all sides and ensures stability if it is good quality.
If possible, ceramics should be kept behind glass for preservation as the fine, natural cracks of a glazed surface is the perfect location for dust and other airborne contamination to sit. Keeping your Delftware away from an open fireplace, indoor smoking, or dusty areas to help reduce any contamination buildup.
Above: a selection of Delft tiles from 1620-40
If you have an antique vase that you would like to display flowers in, consider placing a productive container inside so that the water is not in direct contact with the ceramic.
Delft tiles should only be cleaned with a soft, dry cloth. Do not apply moisture or chemicals or rub with force. We recommend that you do not use historic tiles in frequently humid bathrooms or kitchens – as this heightens the risk of deterioration and loss.
Delftware Restoration
When a ceramic becomes damaged, do not try to repair the damage yourself. Using household glues or amateaur kintsugi may create more damage than you expect. Over time these adhesives can discolour and worsen the plates overall condition.
Above: a Delft blue charger plate, before and after restoration by our conservator
If you have a broken object, always collect all of the pieces (no matter how small) and our conservator will professionally bring them back together. We want to use as many pieces of the original as possible, to ensure the historic integrity remains intact.
We restore breaks, chips and abrasions with expert precision. Our conservator is ethical in their approach and will not over-restore or alter a historic item’s antique appeal. We aim for stabilisation and preservation, with as seamless a result as possible.
Above: our conservator Amy working on a variety of ceramics
We can reverse old and failing repairs as well as proving new, conservation-appropriate alternatives. We can replace old glue and staples with conservation grade adhesives that will avoid acidic decay and yellowing. Obvious repairs can be taken off and retouched with a much more sensitive and visually pleasing finish.
We have restored many Delft items and similar tin-glazed earthenware pieces over the years. The results not only return the artistic and cultural importance of the item, but the ability for it to safely survive for hundreds of years to come.
How can we help?
If you have any questions, please do not hesitate to get in touch. As part of our service we offer a nationwide collection and delivery service as well as information on worldwide shipping to our studio. E-mail us via [email protected] or call 0207 112 7576 for more information.
