Dessert-service

Adriaen Kocks, De Grieksche A workshop, Delft, Netherlands, 1686–1701

Tin-glazed earthenware (faïence), painted with cobalt.

Diameter of large bowl: 21.5 cm

Markings: AK in blue

UMP 8163

In the 16th century, Italian masters from Castel Durante settled in Antwerp, bringing faïence production techniques with them. Production quickly spread from Antwerp to other towns. Once the artists had completely broke with the influence of Italian and Spanish majolica, burgeoning trade with China and Japan proved to have a significant impact on the look of the ceramics. The effect of Eastern porcelain on local faïence can be seen in the long reign of cobalt blue and vivid colouring in delftware. (lmp)