Dutch whites

The Netherlands has of old been a real ‘tile country’. Advanced techniques in the field of tiles were largely developed in Delft viz decorated Dutch whites. The famous Delftware and Dutch whites in particular which are based on classic designs and motifs. Therefore it is no surprise that the quality of the traditional Dutch tile art can be recognized instantly.

With old Dutch tiles (or: Dutch whites) the white glazed wall tiles are meant, that were frequently used in Dutch interiors in the 17th century. The tiles with (blue) decorations were used as skirting board along the floors, as panelling in corridors and staircases, and as hearthstones

The origin of these Dutch whites can be found in the Near East. Around 1600, flourishing industries arise all over the Netherlands that manufacture tiles with a (Dutch) style of their own. The decorations often have a theme. The decorated Dutch tiles and tableaux were exported as well, to Lisbon, Algiers and Istanbul for instance.

The Delftware tiles and pottery is still being made in Delft. Jan Schouten from Delft was a collector of Dutch tiles. In 1920 his collection was added to the Museum Lambert van Meerten.

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