Tall Green-Glazed Olive Jar from Tornac, Late 19th Century - 29¼"

A grand green-glazed terracotta olive jar from Tornac in southern France, dating from the late 19th to early 20th century. The tall ovoid body rises from a flared ring foot to a broad rolled rim, accented by subtle incised bands at the shoulder. Its lustrous copper-green glaze cascades in beautiful drips and tonal variations across the exterior, creating a richly textured surface, while the interior is finished in a warm brown glaze, providing a sealed surface for the storage of olives, oil, and other provisions, a testament to the vessel's practical origins.

The form is unadorned by handles, emphasizing its functional purpose and elegant simplicity. The surface displays scattered glaze losses, small nicks to the rim, light pitting, and kiln marks, all consistent with age and use. These signs of wear contribute to a beautifully layered patina, enhancing the jar's authenticity and decorative appeal while highlighting the depth and movement of the glaze.

With its tall silhouette and vibrant green finish, this jar brings instant Mediterranean character to both traditional and contemporary settings. Whether used as a cache-pot with a liner, filled with olive branches or dried botanicals, or displayed as a sculptural object in its own right, it adds colour, texture, and a sense of permanence.

A matching example is available separately, allowing the pair to create a particularly striking architectural statement flanking a doorway, fireplace, or terrace.