Early 18th-Century Delft Blue and White Teapot, Marked C B for Cornelis Brouwer, De Witte Ster, Delft, c.1725–1735

A rare and exceptionally well-preserved small and perfectly formed early 18th-century Dutch Delft blue and white teapot. Delicately and finely painted in cobalt with scrolling foliage, flowering branches and stylised animals in the Chinese taste. The domed cover retains its original seated spotted dog finial, a charming and characteristic feature.

The globular body is decorated on all sides with large foliate panels framed by trellis and cross-hatched borders, typical of high-quality Delft faience of the period. The underside is marked in blue with a star above the initials C B, the documented device of Cornelis Brouwer, proprietor of the Delft pottery De Witte Ster (“The White Star”), active 1724–1738. Brouwer’s workshop is associated with vivid cobalt palettes, confidently brushed chinoiserie foliage and lively animal motifs, all clearly present here.

In wonderful condition: the original lid and finial are intact; the handle and spout are original; and only minor fritting to the rim reflects its early tin-glazed manufacture. Teapots of this earlier Delft period, especially signed examples retaining their covers and finials, are rare.

Date: Circa 1725–1735
Mark: Star above C B, for Cornelis Brouwer, De Witte Ster
Provenance: Private English collection
Condition: Excellent for age; minor fritting typical of early Delft; no restorations observed.