Tulipiere and Flower Bricks

Tulipiere’s peaked during the 17th century era of tulip mania as they offered a way for precious tulip bulbs to be grown indoors and displayed without cutting the stems. They often came in a pair, towering upwards. Flower bricks were used for cut flowers. Far prettier than they sound, these are great fun to arrange flowers in and they’re very easy to use since you just fill them with water and then fill each hole with an individual stem. In both cases the Dutch Delftware originals fetch vast sums but later versions offer a good alternative. Try 1^st Dibs and keep an eye out at antiques auctions for these. Rustique stock some pretty French antique vases, sign up to their newsletter to be the first to hear about new stock.

Horneman Antiques on Kensington Church Street have produced their own line in porcelain tulipieres, inspired by the Dutch late 17^th and early 18^th century models. These are created to order and can be personalised with your own decorations – including monograms – or made in a colour glaze of your choice. Sophie Conran has made an imitation Delft version, and you can also find lots via Etsy.

Lots of artists and makers are now producing playful takes on the tulipiere and flower brick. You can commission a bespoke piece from Frances Palmer or Francesca Kaye, whilst Gavin Houghton has some pieces available to buy via his online shop. The La Di Da flower box is brilliant. And Pols Potten’s coral-inspired tulipiere holds up to 20 tulips.