What is a Delft Blue tulip vase?

A Delft Blue tulip vase is a decorative ceramic vase designed to hold several tulips in separate spouts. These unusual vases became popular in the Netherlands during the 1600s, around the time of Dutch tulip mania and many were made in pyramid shapes with stacked layers and multiple openings for flowers. Wealthy Dutch families displayed tulip vases as luxury items in grand homes and some large examples stood over one metre tall. Delftware factories painted the vases with blue floral patterns, birds and scrolling designs inspired by Chinese porcelain. Original 17th-century tulip vases are rare today and appear in museums such as the Rijksmuseum. Auction prices for antique examples can reach tens of thousands of euros. Royal Delft still produces modern versions using traditional hand-painting methods and tulip vases remain linked with Dutch identity and are among the most recognised forms of Delft Blue pottery in the world.