18th Century French Provençal Terracotta Biot Olive Oil Jar

$3,550

About

This substantial antique olive oil jar brings authentic Provençal character and sculptural presence to an interior, covered terrace or garden setting. Crafted in Biot in Southern France circa 1760, the hand-formed earthenware vessel is made of blond clay and features the generous bulbous silhouette traditionally associated with the region’s celebrated olive jars.

The wide opening is framed by a thick rolled rim, while a band of pale ochre glaze highlights the neck and extends into the interior. Below, the unglazed terracotta body displays soft beige and earthy gray tones with naturally mottled areas, firing variations and surface irregularities developed through centuries of age and use. Its simple form and beautifully weathered patina give the jar a quiet, architectural quality.

Biot, a historic village on the French Riviera, became renowned for producing large storage vessels used during the 17th and 18th centuries to preserve and transport olive oil. Admired for their scale, durability and graceful proportions, these distinctive Provençal vessels are sometimes referred to as the “kings of jars.”

The tall ceramic vessel is in excellent condition commensurate with age and use and would be equally striking displayed alone or filled with substantial branches.

Dimensions: 23″ diameter x 33.25″ H

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