Dutch Children in Traditional Staphorst Dress, 1932, Paper

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Dutch Children in Traditional Staphorst Dress with Delfts Blue Tiles Background Catalog : This charming antique print depicts three young … Read more Dutch Children in Traditional Staphorst Dress with Delfts Blue Tiles Background Catalog : This charming antique print depicts three young children from the Dutch village of Staphorst, portrayed in their traditional Sunday dress against a backdrop of stylized Delft tiles. The vivid depiction captures the cultural richness and regional identity of the Netherlands in the early 20th century. The illustration features two young girls and one boy, all dressed with meticulous attention to regional costume details typical of Staphorst and Rouveen in the province of Overijssel. The girls are shown wearing the characteristic black satin *toet muts* (peaked caps) covered with floral kerchiefs, the red and white checkered *fichu*, and traditional aprons tied with bright blue ribbons. Their skirts are made from homespun blue and black striped *vijfschaft* wool, with visible under-skirts and the typical stiff pleats indicating handcrafted tailoring. On their wrists, silver bracelets are worn, often gifted to children as part of a family tradition. Wooden clogs on their feet complete the outfit, grounding them in both function and tradition. The boy is dressed in an early version of adult male attire from the same region. His dark wool trousers are held up by braces called *hulpzeilen*, sometimes referred to as life-savers, a local term for these suspenders. He wears a black beaver cloth *kamizool* (waistcoat) adorned with double rows of metal buttons. His shirt collar, or *beffe*, is buttoned with the traditional gold fasteners, which mark the passage into early boyhood from toddler age. This image is taken from a rare and limited series documenting Dutch regional costumes, with the background of blue-toned circular Delft tile motifs adding not only decorative appeal but also historical context. These tiles often featured biblical scenes or animals, here providing a visual narrative as well as an atmospheric setting. Condition: This original chromolithograph is in excellent condition for its age. The colors remain vibrant and well-preserved, with minimal signs of foxing or wear. The sheet retains wide margins and shows only minor toning typical of antique prints. There are no tears or repairs. Framing Tips: To enhance its visual appeal and protect the print, consider framing it with a museum-grade, acid-free mount. A simple frame in wood or black would highlight the colorful attire and iconic Delft tile background. A non-reflective UV-protective glass is recommended to preserve the brilliance of the chromolithography over time. See less