Blue and White Delft Plate or Dish Hand Painted Holland C-1800 w/ Mark of The Claw

**The history of tea and teapots in the Netherlands is closely tied to the country’s long-standing relationship with trade and exploration. Tea was introduced to the Netherlands in the early 17th century through the Dutch East India Company (VOC). The VOC played a significant role in global trade and exploration during that time. Dutch traders encountered tea during their voyages to Asia, primarily in China and Japan, and brought it back to the Netherlands. The Dutch quickly recognized the commercial potential of tea, and the VOC began importing and trading tea from Asia. Initially, tea was a luxury item accessible only to the affluent due to its high cost. However, its popularity gradually grew, and tea consumption spread across various social classes. Background of Delft The technique of making Delft was first described in writing by Gerrit Paape in “The Delft Pottery Maker,” written in 1794 and dedicated to Lambertus Sanderus, the owner of De Porceleyne Claeuw (The Porcelain Claw). Delft faience began in the 17th century. Much of the most beautiful Delft was produced in the Dutch city of Delft. The Delft potters began to coat their pots thoroughly in a white tin glaze. They then covered the white tin glaze with a clear glaze, giving depth to the fired surface and smoothness to cobalt blues. Over time they created a good resemblance to porcelain. By circa 1650, the technical skills of the potters and painters were much improved, and Delft began its golden age. We offer FREE shipping to the continental United States. For orders shipping outside the continental US, please email [email protected] for a shipping quote. Buyer Protection Guarantee: your purchase will arrive as described. Questions? Contact us.