1970s French Barbotine Rabbit-Form Lidded Terrine - 9"

This delightful rabbit-form lidded box comes from Maison Caugant, the celebrated Breton charcutier-traiteur whose pâtés and terrines enjoyed great success and were famously presented in charming zoomorphic ceramic containers. Produced for the Caugant brand and handmade by their partnering ceramic ateliers, this petite rabbit is modeled in the round with a naturalistic pose and finely textured fur, then hand-painted in warm tawny ochre and cream with subtle black accents that bring out the molded coat and alert ears. The lid lifts cleanly at the midline of the body, and the ear tips and paw edges show only light rubbing, with gentle age-related crazing overall, leaving the piece in very good condition.

Under the base, a printed French note signed by Michel Caugant reads: “Cette pièce en faïence véritable a été entièrement réalisée à la main. Je vous la propose en exclusivité.” (“This piece, in genuine faience, was made entirely by hand. I offer it to you exclusively. Michel Caugant.”) This inscription reflects the house’s tradition of commissioning artisanal ceramics specifically for their celebrated terrines.

On a kitchen dresser or dining room console, it serves as a whimsical little dish for sugar cubes or wrapped sweets. Set on a writing desk or bedside table, it makes a tender trinket box that brings quiet warmth to cottage, country French, or farmhouse spaces. In a child’s room or nursery, it perches beautifully on a shelf, its soft colors and rounded form offering a touch of storybook charm.