Early 19th Century French Provincial Terracotta Olive Jar from Provence

$4,680

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Bring authentic Provençal character to a garden room, covered patio, or interior entry with this impressive antique French olive jar. Crafted in Southern France circa 1830, the large hand-thrown terracotta vessel features the classic rounded silhouette associated with traditional Biot jars once used for storing and transporting olives and olive oil throughout Provence. The substantial pottery form is finished in warm natural clay tones with a beautifully weathered surface accumulated over generations of use. The rolled rim retains traces of pale ochre glaze along the interior edge, creating a subtle contrast against the matte earthenware body. Time-softened variations in tone, firing marks, and surface irregularities further enhance the rustic authenticity and sculptural presence of the piece. Elegant in its simplicity, this antique Provincial jar works beautifully as a standalone decorative vessel, filled with tall branches, or incorporated into a garden setting alongside stone and wrought iron elements. The jar is in excellent condition commensurate with age and use, and adorns a rich aged patina throughout. In the South of France, particularly around the village of Biot on the French Riviera, these terracotta vessels were considered the “king of jars” and were historically used for the storage and transport of olive oil during the 18th and 19th centuries. Dimensions: 28″ Diameter x 41″H.

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