Plateelbakkerij Ram (1921 – 1969) Arnhem-based Dutch Ceramics

This article forms part of the Decorative and Applied Arts Encyclopedia, a master reference hub providing a structured overview of design history, materials, movements, and practitioners.

Bowl with marbled decor made by Plateelbakkerij Ram
Bowl with marbled decor made by Plateelbakkerij Ram

Plateelbakkerij Ram (1921 – 1969) was a Dutch ceramics company based in Arnhem.

Foundation and Early Direction

The factory was founded in 1921 with the aim of producing high-quality ceramic bodies. Between 1921 and 1925, the renowned designer Thomas A. C. Colenbrander worked with the company. Remarkably, Plateelbakkerij Ram was established specifically for him when he was already eighty years old. During this period, Ram’s ceramics were often sold through exhibition auctions and presented as works of art rather than craft objects.

A faience urn with lid, Plateelbakkerij Ram in Arnhem, 1920s/30s.
A faience urn with lid, Plateelbakkerij Ram in Arnhem, 1920s/30s.

Designers and Artistic Collaboration

From 1924 to 1935, N. Henri van Lerven—an art dealer and designer—worked closely with F. Mansveld, experimenting extensively with oxide paints. In addition, the sculptor and artist H. J. Jansen van Galen contributed several designs, further broadening Plateelbakkerij Ram’s artistic output.

Mansveld left the company in 1927, after which he continued to oversee Colenbrander’s designs produced after 1925. Over time, however, van Lerven became the principal designer and shaped much of Ram’s later identity.

Vase, Colenbrander, ca.1920 made by Plateelbakkerij Ram
Vase, Colenbrander, ca.1920 made by Plateelbakkerij Ram

Key Takeaways

  • Plateelbakkerij Ram operated in Arnhem from 1921 to 1969, focusing on high-quality ceramics.
  • Thomas A.C. Colenbrander initially designed for Ram, while N. Henri van Lerven became the main designer after 1925.
  • Ram’s products were regarded as art and featured distinctive design techniques, such as single-stroke stripes and oxide paint effects.
  • The company closed in 1969 after a successful run of innovative and artistic ceramics.

Sources

Byars, M., & Riley, T. (2004). The design encyclopedia. Laurence King Publishing, further documenting the history of Plateelbakkerij Ram.

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