Makkum Royal Tichelaar Porcelain Fruit Strainer Set #549

Description

These sets are difficult to find. They were used to strain or "drain" fruit but affluent families would also display them as art or decor to advertise their wealth.
Royal Tichelaar Makkum is a family business located in Makkum, Holland. The business was passed on from father to son for over four centuries. The special character of the Tichelaar Makkum earthenware was produced by their unique, secret tin glaze, giving each hand made piece its gloss and brilliance.
I spent an inordinate amount of time trying unsuccessfully to accurately date this set. I did find that the mark number (549) indicates when the pattern was introduced. I couldn't find anything below 883 which tells me that this set is most likely very old.
Please email me with any questions and thanks for looking 👀