Antique 18th-Century Delft Blue Biblical Tile – Jesus and the Samaritan Woman at the Well

Imagine a charming, Old Dutch fireplace, illuminated by flickering candlelight, where this beautiful blue-and-white wall tile was part of everyday life for centuries. This is no modern reproduction, but an authentic, hand-painted artwork from the 18th century. Your gaze is drawn to the refined painting within the circle, framed by the characteristic French lily in the corners. A unique collector's item that instantly adds character and a historical story to a modern or classic interior.

The brushstrokes on this tin-glazed tile breathe the pure craftsmanship of an experienced painter from bygone times. As you run your fingers over the characteristic crazing and subtle edge wear, you can literally feel centuries of history. The deep Delft blue, combined with its well-worn appearance, evokes a nostalgic sense of coziness and tranquility. 

Historical Context: Jesus and the Samaritan Woman

This biblical tile depicts the well-known story of Jesus and the Samaritan woman at the well (John 4).

We see Jesus, recognizable by the halo or radiance around his head, sitting at the edge of the stone well. Opposite him sits the Samaritan woman, who is drawing water with a bucket and rope. The scene symbolizes a revolutionary biblical moment in which the Lord Jesus looks past all prejudices and wishes to help this woman.

 In the 17th and 18th centuries, these kinds of 'Bible tiles' were immensely popular in Dutch households; they served not only as decoration and insulation around the fireplace, but also as a visual picture book to teach children biblical stories.

Specifications and Condition

• Product: Antique Dutch Bible Tile (Delft Blue / Tin-Glazed).
• Depiction: Jesus and the Samaritan Woman at Jacob's Well (John 4).
• Date: Mid-18th Century (ca. 1740 - 1780).
• Corner Motif: French Lily.
• Dimensions: Ca. 13 x 13 cm (standard antique Dutch tile size).
• Condition: In honest, well-worn antique condition. The tile shows beautiful authentic crazing, glaze loss along the edges, and a characteristic broken corner at the bottom left, which bears witness to its long history and removal from an old fireplace. The back still contains the original lime mortar remains, which further underscores its authenticity.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. How can I be sure that this tile is genuinely antique?
The tile shows all the characteristics of 18th-century Dutch tin-glazed earthenware: the specific thickness, the artisanal pinholes (nail holes in the corners from the production process), the authentic lime remains on the back, and the refined, hand-painted blue tones that blend into the white-grey glaze.

2. Does the damage to the corner reduce the value of the tile?
For tiles of this age, edge damage or a missing corner is very common and accepted. It tells the story of the tile and proves that it was indeed built into a wall. The central depiction is still completely intact and beautifully sharp in quality, so its historical and decorative value is exceptionally well preserved!

At Antiekhuys.nl you receive:

• 100% Manual Selection & Craftsmanship
  Every product is personally selected, inspected, and passionately processed by us. We create custom-made pieces with an eye for detail.
• Professional Packaging for Maximum Protection
  We exclusively use high-quality, sturdy packaging materials. Your order is optimally protected against shocks and damage, so it arrives in perfect condition.
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• Knowledge & Passion for History
  We don't just sell products; we share a story. We love history and enjoy explaining it. That is why you will often find the background and origin of the products, so you know exactly what you are bringing into your home.
• Only a Small Fixed Shipping Contribution (We Pay the Rest)
  We never compromise on the safety of your delivery. You pay a fixed, low fee and we cover the rest. This ensures your order is guaranteed to be well on its way.