18th-Century Delft Blue & White Ware

The strong cobalt decoration and lively, freely painted figures are characteristic of the enduring influence of Chinese porcelain on early 18th-century Delftware.

Delft was one of Europe’s foremost centres for tin-glazed earthenware during the 18th century. Inspired by Chinese blue-and-white porcelain, Delft potters developed their own distinctive repertoire of hand-painted decoration, combining Oriental motifs with European flowers, landscapes, figures and ornamental designs. Painted in cobalt blue over an opaque white tin glaze, these plates and chargers were made both for use and decorative display.

Large plates and chargers were produced both for use and display, their hand-painted decoration ranging from restrained floral compositions to richly detailed chinoiserie scenes. The characteristic cobalt-blue palette, applied over an opaque white tin glaze, became synonymous with Delft and remains one of the most recognisable traditions in European ceramics.

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