Basket c. 1760 - 1775

This basket was made by De Drie Posteleyne Astonne. It’s a delicate object, made of earthenware and decorated with a pierced pattern and blue floral motifs. Ceramics like this offer a fascinating insight into the economic and cultural life of the Netherlands. In the 17th and 18th centuries, the Dutch East India Company imported vast quantities of porcelain from China. The intricate designs and high quality of Chinese porcelain made it highly desirable among wealthy Europeans. Delftware potters, like De Drie Posteleyne Astonne, sought to imitate these coveted imports. By producing their own versions, they catered to a growing market for decorative ceramics among the Dutch middle class. These objects also remind us of the complex relationship between art, commerce, and colonialism. The raw materials and artistic inspiration often came from distant lands, brought to Europe through global trade networks. As historians, we can research the company records, trade routes, and social histories to understand the forces that shaped the production and consumption of this basket.