A Dutch delft blue and white oval plaque Dated 1684

finely painted with a riverscape depicting wayfarers strolling along the riverbank and figures in canoes beneath the church located on a hill, all within a border molded with meandering flower branches interrupting four oval landscape vignettes.

Aronson Antiquairs, Amsterdam, 2001

Ill. Aronson, Dutch Delftware 2001, ill. 6

There is some minor and occasional glaze abrasions to the surface of the molded border as well as to the edges of the hole at the top. there is also minor and occasional scratching to the surface, mostly to the vignettes on the border. There is an approximate 1-inch slice chip to the edge on the back of the plaque, showing very little on the front at the rim edge. Otherwise in good condition.
In response to your inquiry, we are pleased to provide you with a general report of the condition of the property described above. Since we are not professional conservators or restorers, we urge you to consult with a restorer or conservator of your choice who will be better able to provide a detailed, professional report. Prospective buyers should inspect each lot to satisfy themselves as to condition and must understand that any statement made by Sotheby's is merely a subjective qualified opinion.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING CONDITION OF A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD "AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF SALE PRINTED IN THE CATALOGUE.

The detailed painting and the skillful use of gradations of blue and white to create depth and atmosphere on the present example indicate that it was painted by a masterful pottery painter working independently in Delft. The lack of signatures on delft wares of this period renders it problematic to make attributions to specific painters with certainty.
A rectangular plaque molded with flowerheads and grapes, painted in the manner of Frederik van Frijtom, with a landscape view was recently sold at Sotheby's London, May 10, 2016, lot 93. Another smaller oval plaque with a border similar to the present example, was sold in the same sale, lot 83.