The Historical Journey of Delft Blue

Origins in the Dutch Golden Age

The story of Delft Blue, an emblematic icon of Dutch heritage, begins in the 17th century, a period known as the Dutch Golden Age. This era, marked by flourishing arts, science, and commerce, saw the Netherlands emerge as a world power, notably in trade and naval strength.

Delft, a charming city in the Netherlands, became the cradle of this exquisite pottery, known worldwide as Delftware, but also now popularly referred to as Delft Blue or Delft Blue Pottery. Initially inspired by the refined Chinese porcelain brought to Europe by the Dutch East India Company, Dutch potters began their foray into creating their unique earthenware.

Imitation and Innovation

Fascinated by the delicate beauty of Chinese imports, Dutch artisans in Delft began crafting their version of blue and white pottery. Delft Blue was not just an imitation but an innovation, blending Asian influence with distinctive Dutch elements. The pottery evolved to feature scenes from everyday Dutch life, landscapes, and floral motifs, offering a glimpse into the Netherlands' cultural identity.

The Rise of Delft Blue

By the mid-17th century, Delft Blue had become a phenomenon. The city of Delft turned into a bustling hub of pottery production, with numerous factories contributing to the artform. The popularity of Delft Blue was not restricted to the Netherlands; it soon found admirers across Europe and even influenced pottery styles in other regions.

Delftware or Delft Blue? Both!

Robert Aronson, renowned antiquair and Delftware expert, explains more about the origin and evolution of the name of these famous ceramics in his article, “Colorful Delft Blue”:

“Since the early 1900’s modern ceramics produced in various Dutch and even German cities were popularly called ‘Delft Blue.’ These objects continued the successful tradition of seventeenth and eighteenth-century products from the city of Delft. While the antiques gained attention from both national and international collectors and researchers, the modern factories grew their assortment and also produced similar objects with other color schemes and named them accordingly, i.e. Delft Red or Delft Green. 

The blue and white objects were however much more sought after and the name ‘Delft Blue’ stuck. The name soon became interchangeable between the modern and antique ceramics, however we refer to the antique objects (from between 1620 and 1850) as ‘Delftware.’”

The Signature Blue of Delft Pottery

What Makes Delft Blue, Blue?

Unveiling the Mystery of the Blue Hue

A key aspect of Delft Blue's charm lies in its distinctive blue color, a result of the unique use of cobalt oxide. This pigment, which originally appears grey, undergoes a remarkable transformation when fired in a kiln at temperatures around 1000 degrees Celsius (1800 degrees Fahrenheit), emerging as the vivid blue that has become synonymous with Delft Blue.

Historical Context: Why Blue?

The choice of blue was not just aesthetic but also practical and economic. Blue was easier to work with compared to other pigments like red and was also more affordable. Moreover, the blue hue was a nod to the highly valued Chinese porcelain, which was predominantly blue and white, making Delft Blue a desirable alternative in Europe. To learn more, you can explore the in-depth article, “The History of Underglaze Blue”.

The Process: From Clay to Cobalt

Crafting the Iconic Blue

The process of creating Delft Blue began with shaping the earthenware, which was then left to dry. Following this, the pieces are subjected to a first firing. Originally, in antique Delftware, the next significant step was the application of a tin glaze, which after firing, provided the white background, a perfect canvas for the blue decorations. This was necessary because as explained on the authoritative site, Delfts Aardewerk (or Dutch Delftware in English):

The Chinese porcelain was made of very fine white clay known as kaolin, but that was not available in the Netherlands. So to make ‘Hollants porceleyn’ (Dutch porcelain) the potters in Delft used tin glaze – an opaque white glaze containing tin oxide.

Skilled artisans then meticulously painted the cobalt oxide onto the glazed pottery. The final firing solidified the blue designs, culminating in the creation of the iconic Delft Blue.

Today, this process no longer consists of the tin glaze. To learn about how handpainted Delft Blue is made now at the last remaining Delft factory, Royal Delft, you can explore their article, “Our Craftsmanship: How Handpainted Delft Blue is Made”.

Contemporary Creations and Innovations

Delft Blue’s Impact on Interior Design and Product Design:
Marcel Wanders’ Modern Twists

Iconic Designs

Marcel Wanders' "One Minute Delft" works are a fascinating blend of traditional Delft Blue pottery and his unique, contemporary design approach. These pieces, included in a retrospective of his work at the Stedelijk Museum in Amsterdam, were inspired by playful interactions with his daughter, Joy, epitomizing spontaneity and humanity in design.

Each piece in this collection, crafted within a mere minute, is a unique expression of creativity, underscoring the essence of happenstance and the unpredictable nature of artistic creation. This approach, embodying quick, instinctive strokes of Delft Blue, results in a collection where no two pieces are identical, each radiating a distinct sense of immediacy and individuality. Wanders' work in this series not only refreshes the traditional Delft Blue but also infuses it with a modern, dynamic spirit, inviting fortuitous collisions of coincidence to shape each work.

Interior Design Masterpieces

The versatility of Delft Blue is further exemplified in Wanders' interior design projects. His work in the VIP lounge at Schiphol Airport integrates Delft Blue motifs into a contemporary space, showcasing how this traditional art form can be adapted to modern interior design. This amalgamation of classic and contemporary aesthetics illustrates the timeless appeal of Delft Blue. In the Delft Blue Salon of the VIP center, the theme is vividly brought to life with patterned blue wallpaper panels and an array of Delft Blue vases, creating an environment that immerses guests in the elegance and intricacy of this Dutch pottery style.

Delft Blue's Influence in High End Fashion

Dolce & Gabbana’s Ode to Delft Blue

Sharon Stone's appearance in Dolce & Gabbana, inspired by Delft Blue, at the Cannes Film Festival was a significant moment in fashion history. Her outfit, adorned with Delft Blue motifs, showcased the extraordinary influence of this traditional pottery on high fashion. This iconic look was not only a tribute to the enduring beauty of Delft Blue but also a statement on its versatility and timeless appeal in the world of fashion.

Runway Revelations

The influence of Delft Blue extends beyond a single event. Renowned designers like Valentino and Roberto Cavalli have also embraced its aesthetic, incorporating Delft Blue-inspired designs into their collections. These high-fashion interpretations highlight the enduring impact of Delft Blue in the global fashion industry, continually inspiring designers to revisit and reimagine its classic beauty.

The Fashion-Forward Evolution

Delft Blue's journey into the realm of fashion signifies its adaptability and the endless possibilities for its motifs. From traditional pottery to runway couture, Delft Blue maintains its distinct identity while evolving to meet contemporary artistic expressions.

Delft Blue Tattoos

Schiffmacher Royal Blue Tattoo Collection: Blending Tradition with Modernity

"Ink connects. Layered, deep-rooted and respectfully an ode to Delft Blue and the art of tattooing."
– Henk Schiffmacher

The Schiffmacher Royal Blue Tattoo collection, a collaboration between Royal Delft and renowned Dutch tattoo artist Henk Schiffmacher, represents a unique fusion of Delft Blue pottery and tattoo art. This collection, which marries Eastern and Western traditions, celebrates the meticulous craftsmanship of hand-painting on ceramics and tattooing on skin, with themes of faith, hope, and love.

A Fusion of Artistic Skills

Henk Schiffmacher's involvement brought his distinctive designs to life on Royal Delft pottery, hand-painted by master painters. The 'Vase True Love', a standout piece limited to 20 editions, exemplifies this blend. Inspired by old sailors' tattoos and an ode to Schiffmacher's own love story, each vase is a testament to the intricate art of Delft Blue pottery.

The Rise of Delft Blue Tattoos

The Schiffmacher Royal Blue Tattoo collection has not only reshaped perceptions of Delft Blue but also influenced body art. Delft Blue tattoos, mirroring the intricate designs and rich blue hues of traditional pottery, have gained popularity, symbolizing a blend of cultural heritage and personal expression.

This collection and the trend of Delft Blue tattoos signify a dynamic continuation of the Delft Blue legacy, demonstrating its adaptability and enduring charm in the realms of both pottery and tattoo art.

Modern Interpretations of Delft Blue Tiles

Royal Tichelaar Makkum's Evolution in Tile Making

Royal Tichelaar Makkum, a company whose roots date back to 1572, has a long-standing tradition in producing Delft Blue pottery and tiles. Over the years, they have embraced modern design trends while maintaining their traditional craftsmanship. Their modern Delft Blue tiles showcase a respect for heritage combined with an innovative approach. They have worked on various projects, from detailed art installations to large architectural endeavors, often involving restoration and collaboration with contemporary artists and designers. This approach has kept Tichelaar Makkum relevant and in demand for both traditional and modern design projects​​​​.

Both Moooi and Royal Tichelaar Makkum represent the evolving world of Delft Blue tiles, where historical motifs are given a contemporary update. This trend in design ensures the legacy of traditional designs while making them relevant in today's interior design.

Moooi's Contemporary Design Approach

The collaboration between Moooi and Royal Delft exemplifies the evolving nature of Delft Blue, where traditional craftsmanship meets modern design innovation, creating pieces that are both timeless and contemporary. The collection consists of interior objects with bold shapes (or ideas!), combined with iconic Delft Blue decoration.

Drawing inspiration from the Museum of Extinct Animals, Moooi x Royal Delft have crafted a series of ceramic tiles, each representing an extinct animal species in Delft Blue. These handmade tiles, designed in Delft, form a unique collection that combines the allure of tradition with contemporary artistic interpretation. The Extinct Animals decorative tiles not only serve as elegant interior accents but also bridge the gap between traditional Delft Blue art and modern interior design aesthetics. They are perfect for adding an artisanal touch to modern spaces, whether displayed subtly as wall art or as striking accents on a mantelpiece or shelf.

Also of note as part of the Moooi x Royal Delft collaboration is the Blow Away Vase, designed by the Swedish design studio Front. This piece, in particular, encapsulates the essence of Delft Blue while pushing the boundaries of its conventional form. The vase, with its exaggerated, wind-swept shape, carries the iconic Delft Blue patterns, reimagined through a modern lens.

Amitābha Studio's Delft Blue Lamps: A Blend of Tradition and Modern Design

The Birth of a Unique Delft Pottery Concept

Amitābha Studio, founded by Davide Piai and Kimberly Poppe, represents a unique fusion of Dutch ceramic art with contemporary interior design. Their unique Delft Blue lamps, born out of a quest to brighten their home during a dark Dutch winter, showcase a seamless blend of historical Delft Blue pottery art with contemporary styling. The studio's inception was a response to the founders' inability to find lamps that resonated with them, leading them to pair an antique Delft vase with a vibrant lampshade, a combination that paid homage to the legacy of Delft Blue while introducing a fresh, modern aesthetic.

Artistry in Delft Blue Lamp Making

Each lamp in Amitābha Studio's collection is a testament to the couple's passion for art, design, and handcrafting. Piai, a craftsman with a penchant for creating beautiful objects, and Poppe, an artist and interior designer educated at Parson's School of Design in NYC, together bring a unique perspective to their creations. Their process involves meticulously choosing antique and vintage Delft pottery vases and transforming them into functional lamps with contemporary touches, thus preserving the legacy of the original Delft Blue master painters while making each lamp a unique piece of contemporary functional art.

Illuminating Spaces with Delft Blue Elegance

Amitābha Studio's mission transcends the mere creation of lighting fixtures; it’s about infusing spaces with light and joy through the medium of Delft Blue. The studio believes in the transformative power of art, especially when it intertwines the simplicity of Delft Blue pottery with modern design elements. Their handcrafted lamps, which embody the essence of Delft pottery, are not just illuminating fixtures but symbols of how a small yet beautiful addition can elevate the mood and aesthetic of any space. Through their lamps, Amitābha Studio brings the timeless elegance of Delft Blue into contemporary interiors, proving that traditional crafts can find a distinct and cherished place in modern homes.

The Timeless Appeal of Delft Blue

A Reflection on Delft Blue's Journey

From its origins as a traditional Dutch pottery style to its status as a modern art icon, Delft Blue has undergone a remarkable evolution. Its journey reflects a deep respect for heritage coupled with a willingness to adapt and innovate, ensuring its continued relevance and appeal.

Delft Blue's Place in Dutch Heritage and Beyond

Delft Blue's significance extends beyond its aesthetic value; it's a symbol of Dutch heritage and a testament to the enduring appeal of traditional crafts in the modern world. Its evolution from classic pottery to a versatile motif in various art forms highlights its unique place in the global art and design landscape.

Discover and Engage with Delft Blue

Step into the World of Delft Blue

Museums and Galleries

Visiting museums and galleries that showcase Delft Blue is an excellent way for enthusiasts to connect with the art form. These venues offer a glimpse into both the history and the contemporary evolution of Delft Blue. We suggest visiting the following in the Netherlands:

• Rijksmuseum in Amsterdam, which houses an important collection of Dutch Delftware.

• Kunstmuseum in The Hague, which has a wonderful permanent exhibition ‘Delftware Wonderware‘ where the history of Dutch Delftware is told dynamically with over 235 pieces.

• Museum Prinsenhof Delft in Delft.

• Royal Delft Museum in Delft, where you can actually experience the making of Delft Blue today at the only remaining Delft factory in Delft.

Also, wherever you are in the world you can find authentic Delftware! This is a wonderful resource from Aronson Delftware which shares where you can find Delftware in museum collections around the world.

Online Exploration

For those unable to visit in person, numerous online resources provide virtual tours and extensive collections of Delft Blue. These digital platforms make exploring the world of Delft Blue accessible to a global audience.

• Delfts Aardewerk, the authoritative website for Dutch Delftware, as well as answering all your FAQ’s about Delftware, their ‘Explore’ section gives online access to the collections of their various museum partners.

• Aronson Delftware, as well as having an incredible online gallery of beautiful Delftware pieces and incredible educational materials about Delftware, also has an augmented reality virtual online exhibition.

Supporting Modern Creators

Supporting contemporary Delft Blue artists and designers is crucial for the art form's survival. By purchasing their work, attending exhibitions, or even engaging with their online platforms, enthusiasts can play a part in keeping the tradition of Delft Blue alive and thriving!