Delft Blue Value & Price Guide

Delft Blue, or Delfts Blauw, is a world-renowned Dutch pottery style characterized by its iconic cobalt blue and white tin-glazed designs. Originating in the 17th century, these collectibles range from traditional windmills and clogs to the highly sought-after KLM miniature houses.

Price Range: $40 - $55 based on recent sales

History of Delft Blue

The history of Delft Blue began in the 17th century during the Dutch Golden Age as potters in Delft sought to replicate the expensive blue and white porcelain imported from China. By using a tin-glaze process on local clay, they created a more affordable alternative that quickly became a symbol of Dutch national identity and craftsmanship. While hundreds of factories once operated in the Netherlands, Royal Delft remains the most prominent survivor, continuing the tradition of hand-painting intricate floral patterns and landscapes. Over the centuries, the style evolved from functional tableware to decorative souvenirs, including the famous KLM airline houses which sparked a modern resurgence in collecting.

Value Factors for Delft Blue

The typical price range for Delft Blue is $40 - $55 based on recent sales. However, values can vary depending on the item's condition, rarity, and other factors such as:

• Age and Rarity: 18th-century plates and vases are significantly more valuable than mass-produced mid-century souvenirs.
• Manufacturer: Pieces from 'De Porceleyne Fles' (Royal Delft) carry a premium compared to other Dutch or foreign imitators.
• Condition: Chips, cracks, and restoration work on the delicate tin-glaze can drastically reduce the market price.
• Provenance: For items like KLM houses, having the original wax seal and liquor content intact increases collector interest.

Tips for Buying Delft Blue

• Look for the 'Joost Thooft' mark or the 'De Porceleyne Fles' jar symbol to identify authentic Royal Delft pieces.
• Inspect the glaze for 'crazing' or fine cracks, which can be common in older pieces but may affect the value of 20th-century items.
• Verify if the piece is hand-painted or a transferware decal; hand-painted items feature slight variations in brushwork and command higher prices.

Items in This Collection

• Delft Blue Planter
• Delft Blue Salt and Pepper Shakers
• Delft Blue Piggy Bank
• Delft Blue Clog
• Delft Blue Windmill Music Box
• Delft Blue Miniature Tea Set
• Delft Blue Windmill
• KLM Delft Blue Houses
• Delft Blue Canal Houses
• Delft Blue and White Plates