This beautiful pair of large Dutch Delft plates was hand painted in cobalt blue during the 18th century, circa 1770.
At the center of each plate, a long-tailed crane stands among flowering plants in a stylized garden.
The bird is surrounded by large blossoms, layered foliage, and delicate insects, creating a lively scene filled with finely observed detail.
A broad scalloped band encircles the central garden.
Each radiating panel is painted with feathery leaves and flowering stems, forming a crisp, rhythmic frame around the crane.
Beyond it, the wide border is filled with scrolling vines and shaded flowers arranged across the gently lobed surface.
The cobalt blue ranges from deep, saturated passages to soft washes and fine linear brushwork.
This tonal variation gives the flowers, foliage, and feathers depth while allowing the intricate decoration to remain clear against the fresh white tin glaze.
Measuring 13.5 inches in diameter, the plates have impressive scale and a strong decorative presence.
Displayed together, their matching forms and closely related hand-painted scenes create a beautiful sense of symmetry.
Each plate bears the Axe mark of De Porceleyne Bijl, one of the respected Delft pottery factories active during the 18th century.
Dimensions: 13.5 inches diameter
Condition: Excellent antique condition with tiny edge frits invisibly restored.
Material: Tin-glazed earthenware
Maker: De Porceleyne Bijl, known as The Axe
Origin: Delft, Netherlands
Date: Circa 1770