Faking China

This earthenware stand was coated with lead glaze which was made white by adding tin. Known in the Near East and the Islamic world, the technique passed to Europe, where it is known as faience or delftware. Although in English delftware can refer to white earthenware in general, the Dutch city of Delft from which it lends its name is associated in particular with the blue decorations produced by adding cobalt oxide.

Although our wig stand was produced in France, Chinese-style stands of a similar shape and material were first manufactured in the Dutch Republic, specifically in the town of Delft. In the 16th century, Delft was the main earthenware market because its white-and-blue earthenware was a cheap alternative for and imitation of imported Chinese porcelains (not coincidentally referred to as “china” in English), which included wig stands as well (fig. 12). After the mid 17th century, inspired by the success of delftware and elite tastes for all things Chinese, French factories also started producing the glazed white and blue earthenware with Chinese motifs (fig. 13). You can read more on the history of the relationship between Chinese porcelain, Dutch delftware, and French faience by clicking on the link below.