Jan & John Maggs

Antiques and Art

A pair of polychromed Delft tiles

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While we are perhaps inclined to think of Delft tiles as blue and white, other hues were common during the 17th and 18th centuries. Rarer yet are the multi-colored tiles, and their scarcity today make them particularly desirable.

This pair, which we found in Massachusetts, have five distinct colors over their white background: deep purple or brown, pink, yellow, green, and (of course) blue. Four tulips stretch towards the center from each edge, and the smaller triangles each contain a leaf.

These tiles were meant to fit together in a pattern that would be repeated throughout a wall or a fireplace surround. While a wall of these diamond shapes might easily cause nightmares, a pair offers more rewards than challenges.

Dutch, 1720 – 60

Dimensions: 5 ⅛” X 5⅛”; Thickness: approximately ¼”

Price: $165

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