Delft Ceramics History

Historically speaking delftware actually originated in antwerp around 1500 when an italian potter named guido da savino started producing similar ceramic artwork according to methods that would eventually be associated with the city of delft.

Delft ceramics history. Old delftware was made as early as the 16th century. The history of delft pottery in the 1600s the dutch explorers brought in wealth and a variety of products for the nation which made them a world class trading partner for other european countries. It was originally a low fired earthenware that was coated with a very thin opaque tin glaze and then a painted blue or polychrome design was applied. Captured in some of the most beloved dutch paintings of the 17th century golden age the city of delft in the netherlands is renowned for its legacy of pottery production that traces back centuries.

Sugar spices tea coffee cast iron and pottery became some of holland s most desirable trade commodities. Delft pottery is still in production today but it is the maker s antique ceramic wares that truly excite collectors. Royal delft history of blue delftware the koninklijke porceleyne fles is the only remaining factory of 32 earthenware factories that were established in delft in the 17th century. Between 1600 and 1800 this earthenware was popular among rich families who would show off their delft blue collections to one another.

Between 1600 and 1800 delft was one of the most important pottery producers in europe. Dutch potters later brought the art of tin glazing to england along with the name delft which now applies to wares manufactured in the netherlands and england as distinguished from faience made in france germany spain and scandinavia and majolica made in italy. Unfortunately for many potters delft blue also went out of fashion and one by one they had to close their doors. Delft blue delft blue is the world famous earthenware that has been produced in the city of delft since the 17th century.

It is also used for similar pottery that it influenced made in england but this should be called english delftware to avoid confusion. Delftware also called delft tin glazed earthenware first made early in the 17th century at delft holland. Most of it is blue and white pottery and the city of delft in the netherlands was the major centre of production but the term covers wares with other colours and made elsewhere. Delftware has its origins in belgium possibly brought by the descendant of potter guido andries who emigrated to antwerp from italy.

Tin glazed multi colored earthenware was pioneered in moorish spain with the style known as majolica which was soon copied and spread to other parts of europe. Delftware or delft pottery also known as delft blue is a general term now used for dutch tin glazed earthenware a form of faience.