Royal Delft Museum presents: INDUSTRY ALONG THE SCHIE From Yeast to Delft Blue – connected by water

How has a waterway shaped Delft’s industrial identity? The exhibition Industry along the Schie: From Yeast to Delft Blue – Connected by Water takes visitors on a journey through centuries of craftsmanship, trade, and innovation. On Wednesday evening, the exhibition was officially opened by Alderman Frank van Vliet. With 126 unique objects, personal stories, and surprising cross-pollinations, the exhibition shows how the Schie connected Delft’s industries and remains a source of innovation. Now on display at the Royal Delft Museum until August 17, 2025.

Courage to innovate

During the official opening night, Hessel Hoekstra, CEO of Royal Delft, and Frank van Vliet, Alderman for Climate, Culture, and Public Space, emphasized the importance of industrial heritage and craftsmanship for Delft. The exhibition was officially inaugurated by ringing a ship’s bell. Hessel Hoekstra: “What an honor to stand here as the new CEO of Royal Delft, surrounded by people who hold Delft, its history, and its future dear. In the 17th century, Delft was a bustling center of breweries, pottery workshops, and lively trade along the Schie. Royal Delft was founded here in 1653. At that time, the city had 34 pottery workshops; we are the only one that remains. This is not only a testament to perseverance but also to the courage to continuously innovate.”

Delft always in motion

Alderman Frank van Vliet also highlighted Delft’s ongoing development: “Today, we open an exhibition that not only looks back at the past but also shows how the industry along the Schie has shaped our city and continues to keep it moving. For the first time, stories from different Delft-based companies are brought together, leading to surprising cross-pollinations. Just like water, Delft is always in motion: innovation is the key to progress. Let’s keep developing and innovating, just as Royal Delft and the entrepreneurs along the Schie do. This way, we keep our city vibrant and attractive for generations to come.”

An exhibition full of objects & stories

The exhibition brings together 126 objects from ten lenders. The oldest object, a beer mug from around 1350, symbolizes Delft’s early industry, while contemporary innovations show how the city continues to evolve. A special place is reserved for the Oral History project by Erfgoed Delft, in which former factory employees share their personal memories, providing a human perspective on the city’s industrial heritage.

Lectures, tours & activities

In addition to the exhibition, various activities will take place in the coming months to further explore the role of the Schie in Delft. Visitors can participate in lectures, exclusive guided tours, and walks along industrial heritage sites. The full program can be found at industrieaandeschie.nl

Collaboration & partners

The exhibition was made possible in collaboration with the Province of South Holland, Expertise Platform Water, Erfgoed Delft, and TU Hortus Botanicus. Thanks to their contributions, the story of Delft’s industrial development comes to life.

Visitor Information

Periode: 13 March – 17 August 2025
Locatie: Royal Delft Museum, Rotterdamseweg 196, Delft
Tickets & informatie: museum.royaldelft.com

About Royal Delft

Royal Delft creates a world of high-quality Delft Blue and inspires with centuries-old craftsmanship and innovation. This globally renowned Dutch Design brand is known for its quality, iconic hand-painted objects, and stylish decorations. Since its founding in 1653, the last remaining Delft Blue factory has continuously reinvented itself through innovative production methods, contemporary designs, and unique collaborations. This has resulted in collections such as Pijnacker and Delfts Zwart, as well as pioneering objects like Proud Mary and collaborations with Mercis (Miffy), Moooi, Marcel Wanders, and Henk Schiffmacher. More information: royaldelft.com

About the Royal Delft Museum

The Royal Delft Museum is the factory museum for Delft Blue and connects visitors with this unique heritage through stories, exhibitions, and experiences. The museum develops cultural and educational programs focused on ceramics, particularly the rich history and artisanal traditions of De Koninklijke Porceleyne Fles. More information: museum.royaldelft.com

More information & press contact

For questions, additional information, and/or images:

Saskia Wildschut
PR & Communicatie
s.wildschut@royaldelft.com
06 3038 5732