delftware

Delftware refers to tin-glazed earthenware produced in Delft and other parts of the Netherlands, best known for its blue-and-white ware commonly called Delft Blue. The technique originated in the 16th century when European potters adopted tin-glaze technology from Italy (maiolica) to imitate the look of Chinese porcelain.

The typical process uses an earthenware body coated with a white opaque tin glaze. Designs are painted in cobalt blue under the glaze and then fired at high temperatures. Some wares later received additional overglaze enamels in green, yellow, and manganese. Delft tiles, produced in the same manner, became a prominent feature of Dutch interiors and church and civic buildings.

Delft became a major center of production in the 17th and 18th centuries. Motifs ranged from Chinese-inspired patterns to Dutch scenes of landscapes, ships, and daily life, as well as biblical and mythological subjects. The production declined in the 18th century with competition from porcelain imports but saw revivals in the 19th and 20th centuries.

The best-known producer is Royal Delft (Koninklijke Porceleyne Fles), established in 1653 and still operating. Other workshops existed in Delft and nearby towns. Today, Delftware remains produced for traditional and contemporary markets and is widely represented in museums worldwide.