Large and Deep Provençal Terracotta Tian w/ Yellow Glaze c.1900 - 22½"

A grand, deep Provençal tian dating to circa 1900, in yellow-glazed terracotta. The hand-thrown vessel has a conical profile with flared sides, a thickened rim incorporating a pronounced pouring spout, and two small opposing loop handles. The interior is finished in a warm honey glaze with visible throwing rings and natural glaze runs over the rim, while the exterior remains a pale buff clay. The piece shows scattered rim chips, glaze pooling and drips, and wear consistent with age and use.

Rooted in the culinary traditions of southern France, the tian was a versatile kitchen vessel, valued for its glazed, easy-to-clean interior and unglazed exterior offering a more secure grip. Large examples like this were used for washing produce, dough mixing, and food preparation. Workshops across the region produced such practical wares around the turn of the 20th century, reflecting enduring rural craftsmanship.

A striking rustic piece, it brings authentic farmhouse character to a kitchen or garden room. It works beautifully as a centrepiece filled with seasonal produce, on open shelving among ceramics and copper, or as a sculptural accent on a console. It may also be used as a cachepot with a liner or displayed on a rack to highlight its warm glaze and generous form.