Antique Terracotta Oil Jar

An antique terracotta oil jar of bulbous form tapering to a point, now supported in a modern three-legged wrought iron stand. Probably originating from Greece this type of jar was typically used to store liquids, especially olive oil and water, and they were important elements of village life going back hundreds of years. This is an especially large example and the technical difficulty involved in making this pot by hand from wet clay and firing it in a primitive kiln is remarkable.

It is a difficult object to move, but we are happy to advise on delivery

18th/19th century.