Delft Blue Birth Plate Value Guide

The 1967 Delft Blue Birth Plate is a cherished Dutch folk tradition, hand-painted in the Netherlands to commemorate a child's arrival. These ceramic pieces are highly collectible due to their personalized historical data, often featuring intricate nursery scenes and the iconic blue and white glaze synonymous with the city of Delft.

What affects the value of Delft Blue Birth Plate?

• Condition of the glaze, specifically looking for the absence of 'crazing' or chips which can lower the value below $15.
• The presence of a well-known maker's mark, such as Royal Delft (De Porceleyne Fles), which commands the higher end of the $25 price range.
• The complexity of the hand-painted scene, with more detailed nursery interiors being more desirable than simple floral borders.
• Authenticity of the 1967 era markings compared to modern mass-produced transferware reproductions.

How to Identify Delft Blue Birth Plate?

• Look for the hand-painted name of the child, birth date, and the specific time of birth often depicted on a wall clock within the artwork.
• Verify the 'Delft Blue' or 'Delfts Blauw' hallmark on the reverse side, typically accompanied by the artist's initials or factory mark.
• Check for the characteristic 1967 date and the traditional stork or Dutch nursery motif rendered in cobalt blue glaze.
• Examine the ceramic for a smooth, high-gloss finish and the presence of two small holes in the foot rim for wall hanging.

History of Delft Blue Birth Plate

Originating in the 17th century in the city of Delft, these plates became a staple of Dutch folk tradition. Birth plates were custom-ordered to record vital statistics, including the child's name, birth date, and often the exact time shown on a depicted wall clock. They typically feature a stork or a traditional Dutch nursery scene.