The Netherlands has a rich tradition in ceramics and tableware production, with factories that have been of great importance both artistically and industrially. Here are some of the most influential Dutch tableware factories:
1. Petrus Regout (later Sphinx Maastricht)
Founded in 1834 in Maastricht, this was the first industrial pottery factory in the Netherlands. Petrus Regout produced mass tableware for the middle class, often with blue and white transfer decorations. Later the company was renamed De Sphinx and remained a leading producer until the 20th century.
2. Royal Goedewaagen (Gouda)
Started in 1610 as a pipe factory, but since the 18th century also known for its decorative and utility tableware. Goedewaagen produced Delft blue, earthenware and art deco tableware. The brand still exists and combines traditional craftsmanship with modern designs.
3. Plateelbakkerij Zuid-Holland (PZH, Gouda)
Active from 1898 to 1965, famous for its colorful hand-painted earthenware. The factory worked with famous designers such as Chris van der Hoef and Willem Hartgring. Their tableware is recognizable by the stylized floral motifs and soft glazes.
4. Flora Gouda
Founded in 1945 and mainly active in the 50s-70s. Flora produced cheerful, hand-painted tableware in pastel colours and playful shapes. Their pieces are loved today by lovers of retro and mid-century design.
5. Social Ceramics (including Zaalberg, Ravelli)
In the 20th century, smaller studios emerged, such as Zaalberg and Ravelli , which produced artisanal stoneware. These studios emphasized simplicity, natural glazes and handcraft — typical of the Scandinavian-inspired style of the 1960s and 1970s.
