Late 19th Century Lidded Provençal Cruche with Speckled Pink-Brown Glaze 10¾"

This lidded cruche was made in Provence in the late 19th century and is a rare surviving example in both form and condition. The vessel is small in scale with a rounded body, sharply tapered base, and an unusually fine and elongated pouring spout. The original lid is still present, which is uncommon for this type of utilitarian pottery. The surface is finished in a speckled pink and brown glaze, applied over the upper portion of the vessel and lid, while the lower body remains unglazed (for evaporative cooling), revealing the natural buff-colored clay. The handle is thickly arched and integrated at the rim, allowing for easy transport or suspension. These small cruches were used for serving liquids, most often water or wine, and were typically stored in cool places or carried to the table. Light surface wear and small glaze losses are visible, consistent with age. A finely preserved piece of Provençal domestic pottery with rare completeness and delicacy of form.