Very large antique French lidded Casserole w/ green glaze 17¾"

This extremely rare late 19th-century "cocotte" lidded casserole epitomizes the rich craftsmanship of Castelnaudary pottery. Crafted from terracotta with a lustrous emerald green glaze, it features elegantly twisted handles on both the sides and top. Notable for its significant size, the piece bears a chip on the lid, indicative of its age and storied use in regional cuisine.

Castelnaudary, located in southwestern France, is renowned for its production of terracotta cookware, particularly suited for making cassoulet. This hearty dish, a staple of French culinary tradition, originates from this town, symbolizing the area's rustic charm and gastronomic heritage. The pottery from Castelnaudary is celebrated for its durable construction and beautiful glazes, making it ideal for the slow-cooking process required by cassoulet, where layers of beans, meats, and herbs blend harmoniously.