Delftware–A Primer

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Delftware – A Primer

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I’ve recently been learning about the varying types of antique porcelain, specifically imari and delftware.  I was mildly acquainted with delftware due to a strong affinity for Vermeer.  But, a recent article in the Wall  Street Journal reenergized my curiosity.  Imari, on the other hand, was a subject I admired, without knowledge of its name or context.  So.  These short primers are to bring you up to speed on both, to ensure, in the future, you know what it is that has caught your admiration.  Let’s begin with Delftware.

DELFTWARE

The Delftware which is the subject of our discussion is Dutch, to be distinguished from British, Spanish, and French (and others).  This is important for precision of thought, as well as understanding the motif you can expect to see with the pieces.  The work begins sometime in the 16th century, in the city of Delft  (hometown of Johann Vermeer; one of my absolute favorites!) largely due to the introduction of Chinese porcelain to the region, through the travels of the Dutch East India Company.  The Delft potters sought to emulate the craft by using local clay, which was fired, covered with a white glaze, and painted.  True delftware is hand-painted, with motifs such as windmills and flowers.  As potters developed their techniques, factories were opened.  By the 18th century, approximately 32 factories were creating varying forms of delftware.  The only remaining original factory is Royal Delft, which continues the tradition—some of their work is below.

Delftware often comes in vases, figurines, bowls, and tiles.  The paintings on these objects traditionally employ the Delft blue, however, black and red is also used.  In the Wall Street Journal article, Julie Lasky gave a quick cheat sheet for one’s pursuit of authentic Delftware:

1. Look at the Price: Delftware that has been decorated with transfers (appliques melted on the pottery’s surface) can look indistinguishable from hand-painted specimens, but is much less expensive.
2. Look at the pattern: …the same motif may be used, but no two hand-painted pieces are exactly alike.
3. Look at the bottom: Genuine hand-painted Delftware from the late 19th century onward has a trademark… . The painter’s initials will be there, too, and the date of production will usually be expressed, not in numbers, but in letters that correspond to a manufacturer’s code… .

Photo Courtesy of Wall Street Journal

Tulipvase Pyramid – Royal Delft

18th Century Cows – De Porcelijne Lampetkan Antiques

Delftware Lobed Urn – Epoca (1stDibs)

Delft Dore Ink Stand (Circa 1700) – Guest & Gray

Dutch Delft Plaque – Guest & Gray

Next week:  We will review imari, return to the trendsetters with Miles Redd, and I’ll sneak you a peek at a couple recent rug purchases. They fall short of Stark’s luxury, but are exciting nonetheless.   Enjoy your weekend!

Vermeer, Johannes. A Maid Asleep. 1656-1657. Oil on Canvas. Metrolpolitan Museum of Art, New York.

Lasky, Julie. Delight in Blue and White. Wall Street Journal. New York. 28 January 2012. D10.