Small Antique Provençal Earthenware Tourne-Omelette with Orange and Cream Glaze - 8¼" diam.

This petite Provençal tourne-omelette dates from the early 20th century and has the characteristic broad, shallow form raised on a narrow foot. Its hand-crafted profile is slightly irregular, while the decoration is particularly simple and graphic: a warm orange ground is enlivened by a cream-colored concentric band and a freely drawn wavy border. Scratches, rubbing and areas of glaze loss are visible throughout, creating a softly worn patina that speaks to its long use in the kitchen.

A tourne-omelette, or vire-omelette, was traditionally used to turn an omelet so it could cook on both sides, with the raised foot providing a secure grip during the maneuver. Now intended for decorative use, this smaller example is especially appealing for its rustic simplicity and bold, graphic decoration. It would sit beautifully on a kitchen shelf or island, either displayed empty or used to hold a few pieces of fruit, garlic or other dry produce.