How do you recognize authentic delftware

How do you recognize real Delft blue? 

Delft blue is known and loved worldwide for its deep blue decorations and historical value. However, with the popularity of this Dutch pottery also comes many imitations. To help you differentiate between real and fake Delft blue, we offer you some essential tips to recognize real Delft blue.

Look at the branding

You can recognize an authentic piece of Delft blue by the branding:

· Factory brand: each reputable producer has its own stamp, often on the underside of the pottery.

· Year code: some workshops use a code to indicate the year of production.

· Signature of the painter: the real craftsmen often put their personal signature or initials on their work.

Material and Manufacturing Process

The materials and methods used in the manufacture of Delft Blue are specific:

· Clay: real Delft blue objects are made from a special white-firing clay. The 1st firing (biscuit firing) is at 990 °C and the 2nd firing (glaze firing)takes place at approx. 1040-1080 °C .

· Glaze: The transparent glaze is decisive for the typical appearance. True Delft blue has a glossy, glass-like finish created by the lead glaze.

· Decoration technique: traditionally, the blue design is painted by hand. Pay attention to the precision and detail of the paintings, when you look closely at many of the same items you should be able to see minimal differences in brushstrokes.

Weight and noise

Authentic Delft blue has unique properties:

· Weight: the pottery feels sturdy and relatively heavy. (compared to porcelain or glass)

· Sound: When you gently tap your finger against the pottery, you will hear a clear, almost musical sound, which indicates the high quality of the ceramic.

Style and pattern

Recognizing the style and pattern is essential:

· Traditional motifs: look at the typical Delft blue motifs such as windmills, flowers and landscapes.

· Color: real Delft blue uses a specific blue pigment that takes on a very distinctive blue hue after firing. This pigment is based on cobalt oxide and is heat-resistant.

Price and origin

Often you can deduce a lot from where and for what price the pottery is offered:

· Price: be skeptical of pieces that are offered very cheaply. Quality and craftsmanship come at a price. An item of 30 euros in a store must be made for 10 euros. Is that possible in the Netherlands? Hand-painted?

· Point of sale: buy from specialty stores or rather directly from the factories known for their Delft blue.

Ask for certificates

Trustworthy sellers can often provide a certificate of authenticity:

· Certificate of authenticity: this document confirms the authentic origin and method of production of the piece.

· Information about the creator: A certificate can also include details about the artist and the specific techniques used.

Visit specialists or collectors

Finally, if in doubt, seek advice from an expert:

· Experts: there are many connoisseurs and collectors of Delft blue who can advise you.

· Museums: Visit a museum that focuses on Dutch ceramics to get a better understanding of what real Delft blue is.

With these tips in mind, you can confidently look for a real piece of Delft Blue, which is not only a beautiful addition to your interior but also represents a piece of Dutch history. Would you like to know more or do you have specific questions? Do not hesitate to contact us at Dutchceramics. We are happy to help you with your passion for this unique ceramic. Contact Dutchceramics delftware for more info or prices