Delft – Dutch Delftware blue and yellow model of a slipper or shoe

Dutch Delftware blue and yellow model of a slipper or shoe. Patterned with hand-painted flowers, the heel washed in yellow.

In the 18th century, miniature ceramic shoes were a distinctive feature of European decorative arts, particularly within Dutch Delftware and French faience traditions. These small-scale objects, often crafted from tin-glazed earthenware, were produced in various European centers, reflecting a shared cultural appreciation for novelty and craftsmanship.

In Delft, artisans created miniature shoes in both blue-and-white and polychrome styles, employing techniques such as mold-forming and hand-painting. These pieces often mirrored contemporary fashion trends and were designed for ornamental display, showcasing the skill and creativity of their makers. The production of such items was not limited to Delft alone; other regions, including Friesland, also contributed to this tradition, producing similar miniature ceramics.

Condition: Restoration to the top edge, mostly visible from the inside. Otherwise, in good condition.

Width: 14 centimeters
Height: 7 centimeters