Pair of large-format antique Delft blue animal tiles, one with a Camel. Netherlands, Delft area, early–mid 17th century. With unusual camel. A decorative and historically interesting pair of original Dutch Delft blue tiles, hand-painted with animal scenes. Each tile depicts: • A camel – rare and exotic in Delft tile production • A dog / fox-like animal Both are painted in cobalt blue on tin-glazed earthenware and framed by architectural borders with stylised ox-head (ossenkop) corner motifs, characteristic of early Delft workshops. ⸻ Rare camel subject Animal tiles typically depict domestic or European animals. Camels are rare in Delft tile imagery and reflect the fascination with exotic animals during the VOC era, inspired by travel books and engravings. This makes maybe the camel tile especially attractive to collectors. ⸻ Painting, technique & restorations • Hand-painted in cobalt blue • Free and expressive brushwork • Old professional restorations using modern paint in some areas, visible under close inspection • Restorations are limited and follow the original design ⸻ Condition • Original tin-glazed earthenware • Typical age-related wear and firing imperfections • One tile shows an old firing crack • Minor edge chips and glaze losses • Mounted in a later wooden display frame (not original) ⸻ Dating Based on: • ox-head corner motifs • animal subject matter • glaze and brushwork the tiles are confidently dated to circa 1700–1750, Netherlands (Delft or provincial Delft workshop). ⸻ Summary • Authentic early 18th-century Delft tiles • Rare camel subject