Delft polychrome plate with a butterfly – early 18th century

Dutch Delft polychrome plate featuring a central butterfly with six floral buds. The rim is decorated with a very ornate border of cartouches and foliate scrolls.

Polychrome Delftware of the 18th century often combined naturalistic motifs, such as insects and flowers, with highly decorative borders. Artisans employed tin-glazed earthenware techniques to achieve vibrant color contrasts and detailed brushwork. Plates with butterflies and floral motifs reflect both the Dutch interest in nature and the influence of Japanese Kakiemon porcelain, which inspired the use of polychrome decoration and delicate central motifs. Such plates were designed for ornamental display and collected by enthusiasts of European decorative ceramics.

Condition:
Good condition overall. Minor wear consistent with age may be present on the rim or surface; no significant chips or cracks noted.

Size:
Width: 23 centimeters