New on the Wall: Delft Blue Appliques

Applique is a technique in which a surface is decorated with ornaments or motifs. In ceramics, the term refers to a decorative clay object, often with a distinctive or expressive shape. While a wall plate is recognisable by its round shape and raised rim, an applique offers far more freedom in terms of design. From rectangular and square forms to elegant ovals and everything in between. The result is a contemporary form of wall décor with a fresh, modern feel.

For the new Cabinet des Fleurs collection, both interpretations of the applique come together. Free-flowing, playful ceramic forms are adorned with rich decoration and exuberant motifs, interspersed with subtle areas of open space. The result is a contemporary form of wall décor in which ceramic, ornament and form come together.

“Every new product starts with a need,” explains master ceramic painter Isa Lagendijk about the creation of the new appliques. “We wanted to create something new for the wall: classic in character, yet contemporary in feel. That desire immediately brought me to the richly decorated wall plates of the 17th century. They were exuberantly adorned with ornaments, luxury and lavish details. We wanted to bring that sense of richness back to the wall, but in a form that feels modern and fresh.”

Together with the Product Design team, Isa then translates this inspiration into the form of the new product. “Throughout the design process, we continually search for the right balance between tradition and modernity. Where can we introduce something new without losing the connection to the past? We look at existing products and explore which characteristics we can adapt. The appliques, for example, have a classic silhouette, but by removing the raised edges and flattening the shape, a familiar product suddenly takes on a completely new appearance. The result is something that clearly draws its inspiration from the past, while still feeling fresh and contemporary. A subtle way to bring something new into an interior without overpowering the space.”

Alongside the innovative appliques, Cabinet des Fleurs also features a selection of newly designed wall plates. Their familiar round shape and raised rim remain, while the decoration takes a fresh and contemporary approach. Two wall plates feature a deep blue background, with the decoration gradually becoming lighter towards the centre. Another combines Delft blue with a mirror, while the largest wall plate in the collection celebrates the rich abundance of historic still lifes. From exuberant ornaments to little hidden surprises, each design invites you to look again and discover something new. Together, the wall plates and appliques create a surprising composition, bringing a fresh, contemporary expression of Delft blue to the wall.