50 years of Heinen Delfts Blauw: The Heritage Collection

"Water has something hypnotic about it — I can literally stare at it for hours," says Jorrit Heinen. The ripples on the water bring back memories in waves, of days when father and son would settle down in the fishing harbor with their painting supplies. Uncles and cousins are waved off from the quay by the women left behind. The wooden botters creak as they brave the waters, and the fishermen are soaked in the salty, cold sea air.

Women in elegant traditional costume walk past the painting duo and ask if their krablappen can be painted as well. The deeply cherished traditional dress — like the art of Delftware painting — is passed down from generation to generation. A symbol of identity, pride, and status, now adorned with the newly added brushstrokes of father Jaap Heinen: a rebellious touch of individuality.

The Heritage Collection was created in collaboration with artist Pepijn van den Nieuwenhuizen. The collection is a tribute to the early days of Heinen Delfts Blauw, when the company’s founder, Jaap Heinen, first set up his painting supplies at the Spakenburg Days in 1975. There, he hand-painted vases and wall plates in the stunning Imari style, and was also asked to paint floral patterns on traditional Dutch costumes.

Like Delftware, traditional costume has become a part of Dutch cultural heritage. It is a living symbol of identity, pride, and connection to the past. These treasured garments carry the stories of generations — from regional customs to craftsmanship and a strong sense of community. They remind us of who we are, where we come from, and what makes us unique.

We commissioned artist Pepijn van den Nieuwendijk to delve into the history of Delftware, traditional Dutch costume, and the golden jubilee of Heinen Delfts Blauw.

Pepijn has a unique ability to immerse himself in historical costume patterns, enchanting maritime legends, and the craftsmanship of forgotten trades. He translates all of this into a jubilee collection in which these fascinating details are woven together into a cohesive whole. A collection infused with love and tradition, like the dyed threads of a proudly worn traditional costume.

The symbols and patterns embedded in the collection each carry their own meaning. The seven red roses, for example, were an important symbol of marriage. The bride would wear traditional costume with a lace-up bodice made of silk, embroidered with seven roses. The number seven stands for luck, hope, and love.

Another recurring motif in the collection is inspired by chintz, the fashion of the 17th century, which became hugely popular for traditional Dutch costumes. This sturdy, beautiful fabric was brought over from Asia by early traders, along with shipments of blue-and-white porcelain, which inspired Delftware itself.

In his younger years, Jaap Heinen often painted in the fishing harbor, where he would decorate porcelain vases. Upon request, he also painted pieces of traditional costume with elegant, flower-like designs resembling chintz patterns.