An unusual and highly sculptural 19th century French water pitcher from Pézenas, featuring a rare three handle configuration and a striking faded emerald glaze.
Handcrafted in the Occitanie region, this early 19th century Orjol-Cruche is formed from honest buff terracotta. What sets this piece apart is its unique triple-handle design: an elegant main handle and spout flanking the neck, with a smaller, charming "ear" handle tucked beneath. It carries the rustic character of a piece that has truly worked for its living.
This Orjol is a rare survivor of the rural French table. Its most expressive feature is the "as-found" wear on the spout, where the emerald glaze has been softly rubbed away over decades of contact with other vessels.
The glaze is a rich, mottled emerald that has faded and softened over two centuries, pooling into deeper tones around the three handles. Inside, it reveals a luminous, soft lemon glaze, providing a beautiful contrast to the warm, buff terracotta body. The addition of the small ear handle makes this an incredibly tactile piece, offering a glimpse into the specific ergonomics of 19th century French kitchen life.
Style Note: Its unusual silhouette and quiet authority make it a perfect sculptural anchor. It’s a must have statement piece for a country kitchen or a modern rustic interior that values rare, functional history.
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Origin: Pézenas, France
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Period: Early 19th Century
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Material: Buff Terracotta
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Dimensions: 12 inches (30cm) High
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13 inches (33cm) Wide (including handles and spout)
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Condition: Beautifully honest wear, including glaze rubbing and minor firing chips consistent with age and use.
Postage & Collection
Postage: £11.00 (UK Shipping Only). As a heavy, authentic piece of provincial earthenware, we take immense care in our packaging. This pot will be shipped using 100% recycled materials.
UK Shipping Only: Due to the fragile nature and historical importance of our 19th century pottery, this item is available for UK Shipping Only. We take this measure to guarantee that these storied pieces arrive safely and are preserved for the future.
International Customers: While our ceramics are restricted to the UK, our Antique French Linens and other non pottery items remain available for Worldwide Delivery.
Click & Collect: Free collection is available from our 1,000 sq ft standalone shop at Dagfields Craft & Antiques Centre, Nantwich. Simply select this option at checkout.
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