Supergrau
When visiting the IMM 14 in Cologne back in January, I observed how the blue and white porcelain Delft style was popping up with new designs and different context. This trend has been one of several I spotted and wrote about for the Australian Magazine The Designer Chicks. Most pictures were taken at Cologne others in today’s post are researched on the net.
You’ll find broken tiles pictures on digital prints for table tops, wallpaper or in a totally unexpected way on contemporary lamp shades. This pendant was actually one of the pieces I liked most at the IMM show:
Label
When it comes to porcelain itself, the classic shape and functionality is rethought and designed in a different context making the object itself more of an art piece.
Seletti, design Maxime Ansiau
Magnus Gjoen
Studio Ditte, Styling vtwonen
Royal Delft, established in 1653, is the last remaining Delftware factory from the 17th century located in Delft (southwest of The Netherlands). The glazed earthenware is still entirely hand-painted according to centuries-old tradition.
I was talking yesterday to a ceramicists friend and she confirmed when it comes to decorating her pieces in color, the color combo still the most popular is the blue-white version. My childhood memories go back to my grandma’s porcelain and tableware in those colors too. Interesting to see how difficult it seems to change popular taste and style. Are you a Delft fan?
3 Responses
As a true “Delftenaar” (born and raised in Delft) the blue and white pottery was something so common, seen everywhere in the city, that I couldn’t appreciate it until I moved. Funny thing is that it was considered outdated and granny-like by many Dutch, until recently. Now it is suddenly hip and trending. It is debatable whether it is Dutch or Chinese or a mix thereof. I think some of the above photos are Chinese (not sure) but only a few can tell the difference. A ceramist once explained to me it has to do with the technique and paint, and the drawings. Next time you are in the Netherlands you should definitely visit the factory and museum in Delft. I think you would like it a lot!
I have tried to learnt he characteristics of Delft porcelain through the net but there were no specific explanations as if they were kept as a secret. So you might be totally right. I’d love to go to the factory one day. x
I love it and find it very elegant. It reminds me of a holiday at a friend’s Grandmothers home in the french countryside. She had loads of old porcelain plates in white and blue that we set the table with, it looked amazing. I’ll go check the magazine out now! M xx