Large Antique French Confit Pot w/ Aged Yellow Glaze, c.1900 - 14¼"

This large French confit pot was made in southwestern France and likely dates from the late 19th or early 20th century. Its form is somewhat more elongated and elegant than many traditional examples, with gently swelling sides, a narrow foot, two loop handles and proportions that give it an almost amphora-like silhouette. The upper body is covered in a warm honey-colored glaze, while the lower section is left largely unglazed, as was common with these utilitarian storage vessels. Visible chips around the base and areas of glaze loss contribute to its wonderfully aged character. The interior glaze is also worn, so a liner would be needed if the pot were to be used as a vase.  

Originally made for preserving duck or goose confit in fat, pots of this kind were everyday household objects throughout southwestern France and were therefore typically simple in both form and decoration. The partially unglazed exterior also helped reduce the amount of costly glaze required.

Today, it is precisely this utilitarian simplicity that gives them their rustic country charm. The generous yet graceful proportions of this example, together with its bright, beautifully aged yellow glaze, make it especially decorative.