Small 19th-Century Provençal Biot Olive Jar 17¼"

This rare, small-scale 19th-century Biot olive jar showcases the classic form and rustic charm synonymous with Provençal pottery. Originating from the picturesque village of Biot, renowned for its pottery tradition, these jars were primarily used for the preservation of olives and oil, essential to the Mediterranean diet. The jar’s robust, bulbous shape and thick rim reflect its functional design, intended to keep contents cool and protected.

Biot, located on the French Riviera, has a storied history of pottery owing to its abundant clay resources. Since the Middle Ages, this village became a center for creating durable, utilitarian pottery, with olive jars becoming highly sought after in the 18th and 19th centuries. The expertise of local artisans is evident in the timeless appeal and functionality of these jars, making them both practical and decorative pieces today.