19th C. French Provencal Glazed Terracotta Olive Oil Jar With Handles and Spout

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This impressive antique French glazed terracotta olive oil jar was crafted in Provence, Southern France, circa 1870. Traditionally used for … Read more This impressive antique French glazed terracotta olive oil jar was crafted in Provence, Southern France, circa 1870. Traditionally used for the storage and dispensing of oil, the vessel embodies the classic ovoid form associated with 19th century Provençal jarres à huile, featuring a full rounded body that rises to a short collar neck and tapers to a narrow foot. Two sturdy vertical strap handles are applied high at the shoulder for balanced lifting, and the jar retains its original molded ceramic spout near the base, designed for controlled decanting into smaller vessels.
The surface is dressed in a richly variegated honey and deep ochre glaze, generously applied across the upper body and thinning organically toward the lower section, allowing the warm terracotta ground to emerge. Visible throwing rings, natural glaze runs, kiln speckling, and mineral deposits attest to its hand-thrown construction and authentic utilitarian past. Honest chips, glaze losses, and surface wear throughout reinforce its genuine antique character and rustic Provençal appeal.
Impressive in both scale and silhouette, this antique French oil jar offers strong sculptural presence. It makes a striking decorative statement in an entry, kitchen, wine cellar, or garden room, and may also be professionally wired as a distinctive lamp base if desired. The piece is in excellent antique condition commensurate with age and use.
Dimensions: 19” diameter x 36”H See less