Large French Olive or Walnut Oil Jug, 1850s

Details

Description

Antique French oil jug/cruche.

Circa 1850 a two handled stoneware jug extremely rare due to its size.
This jug would … Read more Antique French oil jug/cruche.

Circa 1850 a two handled stoneware jug extremely rare due to its size.
This jug would have been used for transporting and storing either Walnut or Olive oil.
Two hundred years ago French stoneware cruche/jugs would have been found in most country households, the extremely rare larger ones would have been used for transporting the oil by the wholesalers.
They have a very rustic appearance and were very durable. These jugs typically featured two handles to aid transporting when full.
A spout at the bottom used for the distribution of the oil.

Two hundred years ago, country houses in rural France were not lit by either gas or electric lighting, light for the rural country houses came from either the open log fireplace or rush/oil lamps using either animal fat or plant oil.
Predominately in Southern France Walnut oil was used to provide lighting.

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Sourced from the South West of France, the exterior of this oil jug is predominately glazed around the shoulder and the handles. The interior is unglazed.
The jug has no visible chips or cracks.
On the exterior you can clearly see the marks from the potter's hands! It tells such a rich story.
The neutral glaze and colour of the stoneware oil jug would compliment any home décor.
It has a beautiful age appropriate patina which only adds to it.
Variations in colour and texture ensure no two pieces are alike and add to their unique character.

Dimensions:

50cm - 19 3/4 inches High
32cm ­ 12 ½ inches Wide See less