Late 19th-Century Terracotta "Faisselle" Cheese Strainer, 4¾"

This terracotta "égouttoir à faisselle" from southeastern France is a charming and functional piece, traditionally used for draining fresh cheese.

The round container features evenly spaced drainage holes throughout its body, allowing liquids to escape while keeping the cheese intact. It features a green-brown glaze on the inside, as items made for handling food were usually glazed on the interior to ensure they were food-safe and easy to clean.

The outer surface displays a unique mix of natural terracotta and an accidental decorative pattern created by drips of glaze from other items that were fired in the same kiln. These drips, in shades of green-brown, contrast nicely with the natural clay color, giving the piece a distinctive and organic appearance that adds to its rustic charm. This combination of functionality and serendipitous decoration reflects the artisanal traditions of the region and the shared kiln practices of the time.