Collecting guide: 7 things to know about Delftware

When thinking of the Netherlands, one of the first images that comes to mind is the blue and white pottery known as Delftware. To achieve the effect of Asian porcelain, earthenware is covered in a white tin glaze, producing a solid light background for designs to be added. The style spread rapidly across Europe during the 17th and 18th centuries — it remains highly sought after there and has become a mainstay of great American collections, like that of patron and philanthropist Ann Getty. Ahead, discover the most important aspects of this decorative collecting category, sure to bring charm and timelessness to any interior.

Delftware was a response to the craze for Chinese blue and white porcelain

While Delft potters certainly existed during the 16th century, their creations surged in popularity in the years that followed. When Chinese porcelain came into the Netherlands via the Dutch East India Company, Delft imitations became a more cost-effective means to achieve similar designs. As unrest grew in China during the mid-17th century, blue and white wares were harder to come by, so Dutch potters met the demand, and the Delft market exploded.

Delftware isn’t just blue and white

While Delftware is most commonly associated with the blue and white colour combination, its chromatic possibilities are endless. In addition to Asian porcelain, Italian maiolica — a coloured earthenware pottery dating back to the Renaissance — was a key inspiration for Delftware, hence the polychrome varieties that also flooded the market.

Delftware was beloved by aristocrats and nobles across Europe

By the 18th century, Delftware — especially imposing tulipieres — was a frequent fixture in grand homes across the United Kingdom and continental Europe. Amongst its key admirers was Queen Mary II who displayed it at Hampton Court, her royal palace in England, and Het Loo Palace, her summer residence in Apeldoorn, Netherlands.

Pieces range from small figures to elaborate tulipieres

Delft manufacturers produced a vast spectrum of styles, ranging from modest tiles to painting-like plaques and opulent tulipieres, designed to grow bulb flowers like tulips and hyacinths indoors. Contrary to popular belief, tulipieres became fashionable during the 1680s, about half a century after the ‘Tulip mania’ phenomenon swept through the Netherlands. Also highly covetable are puzzle jugs and large garnitures of vases.

Scenes and themes run the gamut — but Commedia dell’arte subjects are enduringly desirable

At their inception, Delftware imitating Chinese porcelain and Chinoiserie subject matter dominated the market, however, peasant scenes and biblical scenes were also common. Over time, Delft forms got more inventive, and many took humour into account. One of the most desirable subjects across European decorative arts were Commedia dell’arte stock characters, such as clowns and lovers.

During the 18th century, milking group animals and shoes became beloved motifs, amplifying symbols of Dutch heritage.

The Cashmire style is amongst the most unique Delftware varieties

During the early 17th century, a Delftware style known as ‘Cashmire’ enjoyed a two-decade period of great popularity. Expensive to produce, it is characterised by its ribbed form, distinctive red, green and blue colour palette, and lush floral motifs.

These are the Dutch historic makers to know

The most important Delft factories established during the 1600s include: De Grieksche A (The Greek A), known for its commissions for Queen Mary II’s Hampton Court Palace, as well as De Witte Ster (The White Star), De Paauw (The Peacock), De Metalen Pot (The Metal Pot), and De Porceleyne Byl (The Porcelain Axe).