The history of Delft Blue pottery
Have you ever wondered how Delft Blue, the iconic Dutch pottery, came to be? Today we invite you to join us in exploring the fascinating history of this beautiful Delft Blue. From its origins to its place on the world map, this magnificent handicraft has left an indelible mark on the world of ceramics.
The Early Years: An Introduction to Chinese Porcelain
The story of Delft blue begins in the 17th century, when traders of the Dutch East India Company (VOC) brought the precious Chinese porcelain to the Netherlands. This refined blue-and-white porcelain was immensely popular with the well-to-do citizens. However, due to political unrest in China, imports decreased, and that created a golden opportunity for Dutch potters.
Innovation in Delft: The birth of a new kind of pottery
The recipe of making the porcelain was kept well secret by the Chinese producers. In an attempt to imitate the beloved Chinese porcelain, artisans in Delft, Amsterdam, Gouda, and other regions in Europe began crafting their own version. This was not real porcelain, because it was made from a different type of clay, but it did have the refined look that was so admired. Using a mixture of clay, sand and glaze, these pioneers created the famous Delft Blue. It came down to using a darker and lower-fired clay that then became lighter in color again by means of glaze.
The Golden Age: Delft Blue conquers the world
In the 18th century, Delft blue reached its peak. At the time, the city of Delft was home to about 33 active pottery factories. Their products were loved throughout Europe and even beyond, admired by both the nobility and the common man. From ornate vases to detailed wall tiles, each piece told its own story. In the meantime, Delft Blue had become its own standard and street name instead of China imitation.
Dutchceramics: Guardian of Tradition and Innovation
At Dutchceramics, we respect the history of Delft Blue, which is why we are committed to preserving and further innovating this traditional form of craftsmanship. Our workshop in Gouda is not only a production center but also a living museum where we pass on the tricks of the trade to new generations and we have also been making sure to keep the unique style of Delft blue alive for 75 years as Montagne Aardewerk with our brands de Wit delftblue, Montagne and Schoonhoven Keramiek (Plateelbakkerij Schoonhoven founded 1920).
You can contact Dutchceramics for:
- Guided tours: We offer multilingual tours of our workshop by appointment, where you can see the production process up close: the casting, painting, glazing and firing of Delft Blue
- Unique Collections: Our factory shop houses a wide range of Delft Blue, from traditional items to modern interpretations.
- Customisation: We manufacture personalised Delft blue for companies and organisations, with recent projects for well-known names such as Ikea, Kon. Damen Shipyards, Action and the Royal Netherlands Navy.
Would you like to order Delft Blue? Take a look!
Order a beautiful personalized Delft blue piece in our webshop Collections (dutchceramics.com) or visit our factory in Gouda. Each piece you choose contributes to the preservation of this beautiful art form and supports the local craftsmanship that is so dear to us.
The history of Delft Blue is more than just ceramics; It is a story of cultural pride and craftsmanship that has been nurtured and passed down through generations. At Dutchceramics you are always welcome to be part of this living heritage. Do you have any questions or would you like to know more about our products and services? Feel free to contact us at info@dutchceramics.com and be inspired by the world of Delft Blue.
