Lobed Delft Dish. Made in Delft, Holland, c1690. Material : Tin-glazed earthenware. As the 17th century progressed and the colony became more established, the emphasis was no longer merely on survival and utility.  Richer, more luxurious and very colorful items such as this lobed dish reflect the improving economic situation.

This dish represents a form first turned on a potter’s wheel, then molded in a two-part mold. These dishes, filled with water for rinsing hands, played an important part in table manners before forks came into general use. Delftware lobed dishes also functioned as serving plates.

Bottles of this type would most commonly held spirits, which the colonists considered to be healthier than water. Bottles were sealed with corks, held in place with thread or wire secured beneath the "string rim" at the top of the bottle.

Return to Collections: 17th Century Personal Effects

Updated 18 May, 2005