Charming Vintage Glazed Terracotta Rabbit by Poterie de Bavent

This charming glazed terracotta rabbit is a quintessential example of Poterie de Bavent, a renowned Normandy pottery workshop. Known for crafting whimsical and detailed animal sculptures since the 19th century, the workshop’s creations, like this rabbit, were often used as decorative roof ornaments ("épis de faîtage") or as garden sculptures.

These pieces, made from terracotta and finished with tin-glazed majolica, are highly valued for their craftsmanship and distinctive glazes, designed to withstand the local climate. The addition of realistic glass eyes enhances their lifelike appearance.

Rabbits, along with other animals such as roosters and squirrels, were especially popular, making these items treasured collectibles. They add a playful and charming touch to any garden or interior space.

In French culture, rabbits are often seen as symbols of fertility, abundance, and renewal, closely tied to the natural cycles of life. They are commonly associated with spring and new beginnings, particularly during Easter, where the rabbit (or hare) is linked to the celebration of rebirth and growth. In folklore, rabbits are sometimes seen as clever and quick, embodying both playfulness and resourcefulness. Additionally, they appear in French fables and children's stories, symbolizing innocence, curiosity, and the joys of nature.