Delft Blue – The Deep Dutch Blue
- Inbal Tur-Shalom ענבל טור-שלום
- Jan 23, 2021
- 4 min read
Updated: Dec 1
When you think of the Netherlands, what comes to mind? Windmills, tulips, canals... and of course, Delft Blue. This iconic blue-and-white ceramic has decorated Dutch homes, inspired fashion designers, and even made its way into modern street art. But what exactly is Delft Blue, how did it begin, and how can you tell authentic pieces from imitations? Let’s dive into the fascinating world of Delftware.
What is Delft Blue?
Delft Blue (in Dutch: Delft Blauw, also known internationally as Delftware) refers to pottery decorated with characteristic blue designs on a white background. You’ll see it everywhere in the Netherlands—from antique markets to souvenir shops. Some pieces are mass-produced copies, while others are handmade works of art from historic workshops in the city of Delft.
From Chinese Porcelain to Dutch Clay
In the 17th century, during the Dutch Golden Age, the Dutch East India Company (VOC) imported fine Chinese porcelain. These exotic items quickly became status symbols among the wealthy. But porcelain was rare and expensive, so Dutch craftsmen began producing local versions. Instead of porcelain, they used local clay, adapting painting and firing techniques to imitate the look of Chinese imports.
Delft Blue tiles protect the wooden floor at the foot of a wood-burning fireplace
Photo: © Inbal Tur-Shalom
Why Delft? And Why Blue?
Delft was a powerful city in the 16th century. It was home to influential guilds, including the Guild of St. Luke for potters, painters, and glassmakers. Refugee craftsmen from Antwerp brought new techniques and designs, and Delft became the hub for blue-and-white ceramics.
The earliest Delft Blue products included decorative tiles, plates, and wall ornaments. Blue pigment was chosen because it mimicked the cobalt blue of imported Chinese porcelain—and it stood out beautifully against white clay.
Delft Blue in Art and Architecture
Tiles featuring Delft Blue motifs were widely used in Golden Age homes: behind kitchen counters, near fireplaces, and around doorways. You can even spot them in paintings by Johannes Vermeer, who lived his entire life in Delft. In his famous painting The Milkmaid, look closely at the lower wall—Delft Blue tiles decorate the room.
Similarly, Pieter de Hooch, another Delft painter, often depicted quiet domestic interiors featuring tiled fireplaces. These artworks show how integral Delft Blue was to everyday Dutch life.
Tea in Style
The Dutch didn’t just import porcelain—they also imported tea. To serve it properly, Delft craftsmen created teapots and cups, initially imitating Chinese sets. Later, they shifted to typically Dutch designs featuring tulips, windmills, and local landscapes.
From Golden Age to Today
At its peak, Delft had 33 pottery workshops. But by the late 18th century, Delft Blue began to fade from fashion. Only a handful of factories survived, refining their methods and raising the quality of their products. Today, you can still visit workshops like Royal Delft to see artisans hand-painting Delftware and even buy certified pieces with official stamps of authenticity.
Dutch Creativity & Marketing
The Dutch, with their talent for reinvention, expanded Delft Blue beyond pottery. Today, you’ll find Delft Blue patterns on clothing, shoes, cookie tins, holiday ornaments, bicycle accessories, and even high fashion. Dutch designer Tess van Zalinge has created entire collections inspired by Delftware, while luxury brands like Valentino have also paid tribute.
Even KLM Royal Dutch Airlines incorporates Delft Blue. Since the 1950s, every business class passenger receives a miniature Delft Blue house filled with Dutch gin (jenever). These collectibles have become a phenomenon of their own.
Delft Blue in Modern Design & Street Art
In Amsterdam’s Central Station, a tunnel to the waterfront is lined with 70,000 hand-painted Delft Blue tiles depicting naval scenes—a monumental work of public art.
When you join my Amsterdam Street Art Walking Tour, we stop at this stunning Delft Blue tunnel, where I share the story behind its creation and symbolism. It’s one of many hidden art gems I reveal along the way—book your private tour and experience Amsterdam’s street art scene with a local guide.
Meanwhile, contemporary Dutch street artist Hugo Kaagman, known as the “Stencil King,” blends Delft Blue motifs with modern symbols and slogans, bringing new life to this traditional craft.
From Golden Age homes to contemporary runways, Delft Blue has remained one of the most recognizable cultural icons of the Netherlands. Whether you’re admiring a Vermeer painting, shopping for authentic ceramics, or simply sipping tea from a Delft Blue cup, you’re engaging with centuries of Dutch tradition.
👉 Want to see Delft Blue come alive on your next trip? Book a private cultural tour in Delft or Amsterdam and I’ll guide you through the art, history, and stories behind this timeless craft.
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