Glazed earthenware « mélard » - 18ᵗʰ century – Puy de Dôme

Glazed earthenware « mélard » - 18ᵗʰ century – Puy de Dôme

The size of this commonly used piece of pottery is absolutely amazing. In days gone by, it was used for storing nut oil in mills, châteaux and monasteries.

In the 18ᵗʰ century, nut oil was used exclusively for lighting purposes in public places.
This jar is particularly well conserved and the distinctive mark of the skilled potter remains intact.

  • The large belly of the jar has finger-fashioned strips with flattened ends the whole way round.
  • The shades, that go from burnt sienna to dark brown, are obtained through manganese glazing, followed by a lead glaze which gives the high shine.
  • The wide mouth of the jar is consolidated by a thick flattened neck.
  • Carrying is made easier by four handles.
The belly of the jar, with its finger-fashioned stripes
The belly of the jar, with its finger-fashioned stripes
Manganese glazing and lead gloss
Manganese glazing and lead gloss

Dimensions: height – 69 cm; diameter of belly – 58 cm; diameter of mouth – 26 cm.
Price: on demand.

Wide mouth consolidated by thick flattened neck
Wide mouth consolidated by thick flattened neck
Four handles for transport
Four handles for transport

Reference number: PA027

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