Pair of 19th-Century Ottoman Demoiselle d'Avignon Raki Pitchers from Canakkale, Turkey 14½"

This rare and elegant pair of "Demoiselle d'Avignon" pitchers, also known as "bec verseur à lèvres", originated from Canakkale, Turkey, a small port on the Dardanelles Strait, and date back to the late 19th century. These elegant pitchers, with their elongated necks and hand-painted details, were traditionally used to serve Raki, an anise-flavored spirit. Turkish merchants transported these pitchers to the famous fairs of Beaucaire and Avignon, where they became known as "Demoiselle d'Avignon."

The pitchers are made of glazed terracotta and feature the iconic green glaze, a common characteristic of Canakkale pottery, along with other colors such as brown, yellow, and white. The twisted handles, as seen on this pair, and the stylized spouts, often shaped like birds or dragons, are defining features of the "Demoiselle" style. Some of these pitchers even display characteristics tied to male attributes, reflecting a fascinating blend of artistry and symbolism.

These particular pieces are adorned with relief decorations, such as rosettes and scrolling vegetal motifs, which are often highlighted with vibrant polychrome colors applied over the glaze. This pair’s beautiful patina, intricate floral designs, and stylized forms make them an exquisite example of 19th-century Ottoman craftsmanship, which was highly sought after in southern France at the time.

As part of the rich history of cross-cultural exchange, these pitchers were brought back by French traders who exported goods to Turkey and returned with Ottoman ceramics. The Demoiselles were then sold at the regional markets in Marseille, Beaucaire, and Avignon. Whether displayed as decorative objects or used as vases, these stunning pieces will bring an element of historical charm and Mediterranean elegance into any setting. 

The antique fair in Beaucaire, known as the Foire de Beaucaire, was a significant event that took place over more than six centuries, from the 13th to the 19th century. The fair would typically run for 10 days, from July 15th to July 25th, reaching its zenith in the 17th and 18th centuries. It was internationally renowned, drawing as many as 300,000 visitors annually at its height. The fair was known for its wide array of goods, many of which were brought in by boat due to Beaucaire's strategic position along the Rhône River. However, with the advent of railways in the mid-19th century, the river trade declined, leading to a decrease in the fair's prominence. In its heyday, it was such a bustling marketplace that it rivaled the trade volumes of the port of Marseille over the course of a year.