One of the uniquely Dutch artistic traditions is the earthenware of the Royal Delft company. Even if you don’t know the name, you know the work. It’s the white and blue intricately painted ceramic pieces of which replicas are found in every other souvenir shop in Holland. These are all replicas. The true, handmade pieces are marked Delft and and beyond expensive.

The craft was started in Holland in 1650 after merchants brought Chinese pottery back from China. During China’s civil war, the pottery was harder to come by yet the demand for it in Holland was still high. In Delft, Holland, many empty warehouses were turned into potteries. The industry flourished and by 1700, there were 32 factories of Delft pottery.

Throughout the years, the company changed hands many times, but never lost its artistry and to this day remains one of the nation’s artistic prides.

I, alas, can not afford any real Delft items, but it’s fun to look, and take photos, of vases worth upwards of $20,000.