Glazed terracotta gargoyle decorated with fleur-de-lis.

Glazed terracotta jug with a decoration of fleur-de-lis – French folk art, 19th century. Beautiful glazed terracotta jug with a globular shape resting on a flared foot. It features a wide upper handle and two side spouts, one for filling and the other for pouring water. The piece is adorned with a relief decoration of fleur-de-lis and plant motifs spread across the entire body, highlighted by a cream glaze contrasting with a lovely honey glaze with fine age-related crackles. This decoration gives the piece a character that is both rustic and elegant. Jugs were traditionally used in the south of France to keep water cool due to the natural porosity of terracotta. This piece also serves as a beautiful decorative object evoking regional folk art. Overall good condition with a lovely patina of use. Notable are a few small chips in the glaze at the foot as well as slight signs of age, which do not affect the presentation (see photographs). An authentic piece that will naturally find its place in a collection of antique ceramics or in a country house decor. Dimensions: Height: 23 cm. Width with spouts: 20 cm. Maximum diameter: 18 cm. Period: Late 19th – early 20th century.