Large 19th-Century French Castelnaudary Confit Pot 11¾"

This large 19th-century confit pot from Castelnaudary in southwestern France features a classic ocher glaze with distinctive green drips, a hallmark of regional pottery. The upper half is richly glazed for protection, while the lower portion remains unglazed, allowing it to be buried in cool earth to preserve food. The pot has a robust, rounded form with two sturdy handles and a slightly flared rim, showing signs of age with wear to the glaze and areas of exposed earthenware.

French confit pots were traditionally used to store things like duck confit, a staple of southwestern French cuisine. The thick glaze helped prevent spoilage, while the unglazed lower section regulated temperature when partially submerged in a pantry or cellar. Their utilitarian yet beautiful design reflects the region’s long history of pottery craftsmanship.

Today, these pots serve as striking decorative elements in rustic, farmhouse, or French country interiors. They make excellent vessels for dried flowers, kitchen utensil storage, or stand-alone display pieces. The warm ocher glaze and patinated surface add authenticity and charm to any space, blending effortlessly with vintage and contemporary decor.