Plate - Delftware - Antique Delft Ceramic

An early Dutch Delft blue-and-white earthenware plate, dating most probably from the first half of the 18th century, circa 1720–1750.

The plate is hand-painted in cobalt blue with a central flower basket containing stylised tulips and other flowers. The centre is surrounded by a decorative band combining diaper work, star-shaped motifs and scrolling elements. The border is painted with a continuous arrangement of stylised leaves and small dots, while the outer rim is finished in the characteristic ochre-brown colour.

The decoration reflects the strong influence of Chinese Kangxi-period porcelain on Delft potters during the early 18th century. The reverse is covered with a pale tin glaze and shows the expected firing irregularities, glaze pinholes and an unglazed foot rim. The plate is unmarked; the old paper label reading “DELFT” is a former collector’s or dealer’s attribution.

Condition:
The plate remains decorative and displays well, but it has considerable age-related wear. There are numerous chips, fritting and glaze losses around the rim, including several larger losses. The surface shows glaze wear, small firing imperfections, pitting and scattered discolouration. Old label and adhesive residue are present on the reverse. Any metal display or hanging fittings visible in the photographs are not part of the plate.

Please study all photographs carefully, as they provide the most accurate description of the condition.

A characterful example of early Dutch Delftware, particularly appealing for its flower-basket decoration and authentic signs of considerable age.