Mid-19th Century French Conscience Water or Olive Oil Jug with Yellow Glaze
A mid-19th century French conscience jug with bright yellow glaze having a potbelly shape with a small drinking or pouring spout and four handles, circa 1850s. This traditional Provençal jug was originally used for carrying oil or water. During the 15th century, the monks of the mendicant or order of beggars would go from house to house begging for olive oil for the poor. They collected the precious liquid in jars like this and looped rope through the handles on each side to attach to donkeys for transport. Each gave according to his or her conscience, thus the name. Today, utilitarian earthenware vessels like this can be found in French kitchens where they are hung from the ceiling or cabinets and used to pour olive oil for use in cooking.
This charming conscience jug is fully glazed unlike other water or oil vessels and was a specialty in Provence. The beautiful patina of this antique jug has slowly developed with the passage of time and with the help of the hot sun in the south of France. The imperfections are a testament to its utilitarian history and frequent use. A classic French jug that's very collectible. We have a large selection of antique French pottery. Contact us for more pictures or information.
Dimensions:
h - 11.4"
diameter - 9" handle to handle
mouth - 1"
TAGS: Mid-19th Century French Conscience Water or Olive Oil Jug with Yellow Glaze, Antique French Conscience Jug with Yellow Glaze, Antique French Water or Olive Oil Jug, French Conscience, French Water Jug, Yellow Glaze, French Pottery, Provence Pottery, Kitchen
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