Gouda Pottery – “Djaco” Pattern

This is a nice example of Art Deco era Dutch pottery. The “Djaco” pattern is appreciated by Gouda collectors for its bold geometric simplicity and vibrant, contrasting palette.

Antique Gouda Pottery Inkwell – “Djaco” Pattern (1930)

Manufacturer and Origin

Produced by the renowned Plateelbakkerij Zuid-Holland (PZH) factory in Gouda, Holland. This piece represents the pinnacle of the “Luxor” or semi-matte glaze period that defined the factory’s output during the late 1920s and early 1930s.

Form and Design

This three-piece assembly consists of the main vessel, a fitted lid, and a removable white ceramic insert.

• Body: The inkwell features a classic, stepped bulbous form tapering down to a wide, flared pedestal base. A functional pen notch is integrated into the upper rim.
• Lid: The domed lid is finished with a distinctive circular ring finial.
• Insert: Includes a white ceramic liner that fits the interior cavity well (likely a contemporary or non-original replacement).

Decoration and Color Palette

The Djaco pattern is characterized by its sophisticated Art Deco aesthetic:

• Motif: The upper body is decorated with crisp, horizontal bands in shades of burnt orange, teal, forest green, and mustard yellow, separated by matte black outlines.
• Base Details: The flared base features a more intricate, stylized floral or “scroll” motif with teardrop accents in deep cobalt blue and orange against a turquoise ground.
• Glaze: Finished in the characteristic semi-matte (satin) glaze, which provides a smooth, non-reflective surface that enhances the depth of the hand-painted colors.

Markings and Authentication

The underside bears the comprehensive hand-painted markings typical of PZH production:

• Mold Number: 217 (appearing at the top).
• Pattern Name: “Djaco.”
• Factory Mark: “Plazuid” (the abbreviated trade name for Plateelbakkerij Zuid Holland).
• Date Symbol: A stylized house/gate symbol, the specific mark for the year 1930.
• Artist Mark: The initial “B”, identifying the specific painter responsible for the decoration.

Note

The “Djaco” pattern is a quintessential example of the transition from the flowing lines of Art Nouveau into the structured, rhythmic geometry of Art Deco.