#MiddleburyCT #Delftware #Print
Talk about May flowers! The bright colors of the tulips on the pictured charger could rival the real ones growing outside. And to think they’re over 300 years old! The charger was made in England in about 1690. Even with a few signs of wear, its age, craftsmanship and design brought its price to an impressive $3,997 at Brunk Auctions. It is a type of tin-glazed earthenware pottery called delft or delftware.
This delftware charger was made in 17th-century England. Bright, colorful flowers never go out of style, especially in spring. (Brunk Auctions photo)
The name “delft” may conjure up images of blue-and-white Dutch scenes, and it comes from a city in Holland that produced that type of pottery. Dutch immigrants brought the technique to England in the late 16th century, and London became a center for making delftware. Designs were often inspired by Chinese porcelain, and, although blue-and-white delftware was popular, potters experimented with different colors. This charger uses yellow, green and ochre as well as blue. Multicolor designs are often called “polychrome.”
Delftware lost popularity in the 18th century as Europeans began making their own porcelain, but, in the 1800s, ceramics decorated with designs inspired by old delft became popular again in Holland, especially with tourists. They are still popular gifts and souvenirs, although they are often imported. Watch out for pieces labeled “Delft”; they were made in the 20th or 21st century.
Q: I have a print that has been in my family for at least 100 years. I have no idea if it is worth anything or just sentimental. I’ve researched the artist and found some information. Do you know how I can tell if this is an original or a print?
A: Check your print for an artist’s signature and edition number that are written in pencil, not printed on. Sometimes it takes an art expert to determine if a print is original. You may want to contact an art museum in your area or the art department of a college or university for assistance.
TIP: Modern bleach can damage 18th-century and some 19th-century dishes. To clean old dishes, try hydrogen peroxide or bicarbonate of soda. Each removes a different type of stain.
Current Prices
Toy, dollhouse furniture, cradle, painted, red, multicolor flower panels, arched pierced head and footboards, acorn finials, 14 x 21 1/2 x 16 inches, $60.
Decoy, duck, preening, painted feathers, cork surface, blue stripe on wing, glass eyes, wood base, marked, GJB, $85.
Cloisonne, box, lid, round, allover basketweave, two birds on water, plants, lotus flowers, silver interior, Korea, 5 1/2 x 3 inches, $315.
Clothing, belt, black suede, four movable X-shape conchos, silver, marked, Taxco, Hector Aguilar, c. 1955, 26 inches, $1,050.
Furniture, umbrella stand, Black Forest, walnut, figural, bear, standing, mouth open, glass eyes, inset zinc tray at base, 19th century, 40 x 15 x 20 inches, $2,125.
For more collecting news, tips and resources, visit www.Kovels.com.
© 2025 King Features Synd., Inc.
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