Late 18th-century French Glazed Terracota Walnut Oil Jar - 15¼"

This oil jar, known as a buire, dates from the late 18th century and likely originates from Auvergne or Ardèche. Made of glazed terracotta, it features a characteristic ribbed and oblique-banded decoration, adding both texture and aesthetic appeal to its surface. Its two sturdy handles extend to a narrow neck fitted with a side spout, which still retains its original wooden stopper—a rare detail that reflects the careful preservation of walnut oil. Its deep brown glaze, marbled with time, reveals the natural wear associated with years of use.

Oil buires were essential in walnut oil-producing regions such as Auvergne and Ardèche, serving to store and transport this precious resource, which was not only a culinary staple but sometimes used for lighting. The applied ridges and bands reinforced the jar’s structure while making it easier to grip. These pottery pieces are a testament to the skill of rural potters, who mastered firing and glazing techniques to create durable, watertight vessels.

Today, this jar’s rustic charm makes it a striking decorative piece in an authentic, warm interior. Whether placed as a table centerpiece, repurposed as a vase for dried branches, or displayed on a shelf, it brings a touch of history and craftsmanship into a space. Its aged patina and authenticity make it an ideal decorative object for a country home, yet equally at home in a contemporary interior seeking pieces with character and a storied past.