Catalan Glazed Earthenware Porró Shaped as a Lemon Cluster c.1950 – 10¼"

This Catalan porró wine vessel in glazed earthenware, dating to the mid-20th century, was made in northern Spain. Hand-modeled as a cluster of lemons, it is decorated in a rich polychrome of mustard yellow and deep bottle green. A handle and short spout, both fashioned to resemble wood, rise above the fruit. The vessel is designed with two openings: the spout, which also serves for filling, and a smaller air hole opposite, allowing wine to flow smoothly when drinking à la régalade, a traditional practice in which a stream of wine is poured directly into the mouth without touching the lips of the jug, a ritual especially associated with ferias (festivals), harvest gatherings, and taverns.  The glaze shows lively pooling, while the surface bears timeworn character with scattered glaze losses and rubbing at the high points, giving the piece a sculptural, folkloric presence.

The porró is a traditional Catalan jug created for communal drinking, its form embodying both conviviality and craftsmanship. Variants modeled as fruit clusters emerged in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, celebrating the region’s viticulture and festive traditions. Produced in rural potteries around La Bisbal d’Empordà and other Catalan centers, these vessels typically feature Mediterranean glaze colors such as copper green, antimony yellow, and manganese brown. Their straightforward, hand-built construction reflects local folk skill rather than the polished output of formal workshops.

This whimsical, colorful piece brings a lively accent to interiors, whether displayed on a kitchen shelf, a bar cart, or a dining room console. It pairs beautifully with rustic wood, woven textures, and linen, and makes a spirited addition to a grouping of ceramics.