Holland Breeze - Possible Delft

Name: Holland Breeze
 
Type: Small Jug
 
Year: Mid-20th century (circa 1950s–1970s)
 
Set: No
 
Mark: Possible Delft - Unspecified Delftware workshop, marked “Hand Painted Made in Holland”
 
History: This striking pitcher or jug is a fine example of mid-century Delftware export pottery, made in Holland. Though marked “Coloured Delfts Blue,” this is a post-war tourist-oriented version of traditional Delft pottery, adapted with vibrant enamel-style polychrome glazes. The scene features an idyllic Dutch windmill reflected in water, with stylized green shrubbery and rust-red rooftops rendered in a naive folk-art style, commonly aimed at mid-century souvenir buyers.
 
 
The form itself is notably sculptural, with a sharply arched handle that adds a flair of Art Deco-inspired asymmetry, further enhanced by the green spotted spine. This dramatic silhouette—unusual among Delft jugs—was likely designed to appeal to foreign markets, especially American collectors during the postwar boom in tourism.
 
 
On the base, the handwritten brown enamel inscription reads:
 
 
“215 COLOURED DELFTS BLUE HAND PAINTED MADE IN HOLLAND”
 
 
This identifies it as a hand-painted studio piece rather than factory transferware. The number "215" may refer to a pattern or form number, though no specific workshop or artist is indicated.
 
 
The condition appears good with minimal wear and intact decoration, though value is tempered by its souvenir nature and relative modernity.
 
 
This jug is a decorative display piece or collector’s curio reflecting Dutch national themes, with playful charm and collectible appeal to fans of folk-style ceramics or mid-century European pottery.
 
Flaws: Age related crazing