Large Italian glazed terracotta preserving jar, two-coloured, late 19th century.

Traditional preserving pot from Puglia, in southern Italy, handmade. These pots were once used to store lard, olives, or vegetables in oil. Generous cylindrical shape, flared lip, and two loop handles. The top is covered with a cream glaze highlighted by two incised lines. The bottom features an ochre-yellow glaze with a speckled grain, typical of these rustic pieces. The interior is fully glazed, with visible turning marks. An incised mark is present under the unglazed base. A piece for use, authentic and warm, a testament to the pottery tradition of Puglia. It easily finds its place in the kitchen as a utensil pot. It can also serve as a planter for an olive tree or rosemary, or simply as a decorative object in a Mediterranean, rustic, or contemporary interior. Condition. Good used condition, with a beautiful patina of age. There are numerous glaze skips on the lip and handles, as well as areas lacking glaze on the body. A fine crack starts from the lip and descends into the cream part (see photo 3). The signs of use are consistent with the age of the piece. Dimensions. Height: 32 cm. Width (including handles): 34 cm. Period: Late 19th – early 20th century. Provenance: Puglia, Italy. Material: Glazed terracotta. Colours: Cream, ochre, yellow. Style: Rustic / Folk art.