Delft Blue: a Gouda secret?

When you think of Delft blue, you immediately envision the city of Delft. That is completely logical. This world-famous pottery bears the name of its origin. However, there is a strong and special bond with our own city, Gouda. This connection is a beautiful piece of hidden history. At Kunst van Roosenburg, we cherish these stories. The love for craftsmanship and history runs deep in our DNA. We would like to take you on a journey through the story of this iconic ceramics. A story that is not limited to one city but is also celebrated and preserved in Gouda. Step into a world of refined craftsmanship and discover the Gouda side of Delft blue.

The history of De Porceleyne Fles

The Royal Porceleyne Fles, founded in 1653, is the last remaining 17th-century pottery factory in Delft. Pottery is a type of earthenware with a tin glaze. The factory became famous for its refined, hand-painted ceramics. Although production always took place in Delft, its influence and appreciation reached much further. We are proud to showcase a selection of these beautiful objects in our Gouda gallery.

The craftsmanship of De Porceleyne Fles is unparalleled. Every brushstroke tells a story. The deep blue color on the white pottery creates a timeless romance. This perfectly aligns with our passion for the 19th century. In our collection, you will find, for example, a beautiful Delft blue tulip vase, a true icon of Dutch craftsmanship. These objects are more than decoration; they are carriers of a rich cultural tradition.

Craftsmanship through the ages

The secret of De Porceleyne Fles lies in the unchanged techniques. For centuries, master painters have been painting the decorations entirely by hand. They use brushes made of marten and squirrel hair. The black paint based on cobalt oxide changes into the characteristic blue during the firing process. This process requires immense precision and patience. Artists like Trudy Otterspeer have helped preserve this craft to perfection. Her influence on the modern appreciation of this heritage is significant.

The designs range from classic Dutch landscapes to refined floral motifs and portraits. Each piece is unique and bears the proud mark of the factory. This level of detail and dedication is also reflected in the painting from the romantic period. It is the love for the material and the attention to the smallest details that connect these art forms.

Gouda ceramics in our collection

In our gallery in Gouda, we create a dialogue between different art forms. The ceramic pieces of De Porceleyne Fles do not stand alone here. They form a harmonious whole with our collection of paintings. Imagine an antique wall plate with The Laughing Cavalier, hanging next to a 19th-century cityscape. The shared aesthetics enhance the experience of both works.

We believe that art determines the atmosphere in a space. A Delft blue object adds an element of historical depth and Dutch character. It complements the stories our paintings tell. Our collection of classical art focuses on the romantic period. This was also a time when the appreciation for the old craft of De Porceleyne Fles flourished again. This synergy is what makes our collection so unique.

A perfect complement to classical art

Why do Delft blue and 19th-century painting go so well together? The answer lies in the shared values. Both art forms celebrate the beauty of the everyday. A rustic landscape on canvas finds its echo in a windmill on a vase. The romance of a winter scene is reflected in the cool blue of the ceramics. They breathe the same atmosphere of nostalgia and national pride.

As a family business, father Kees and son Arjan carefully select each piece. Whether it is a painting or a ceramic object, we look for quality, authenticity, and story. The objects of De Porceleyne Fles are an essential part of the total experience we want to offer. They make the journey back to the 19th century complete and tangible.

Experience this piece of history yourself

A photo can never fully capture the fine details and the shine of the glaze. That is why we warmly invite you to our gallery in Gouda. Come and experience the harmony between painting and ceramics for yourself. Feel the history and admire the craftsmanship up close. We are happy to share our passion with you.

Contact us and plan your visit