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$950
A striking vintage Moroccan polychrome ceramic water jug, handcrafted and hand-painted in Fez, Morocco, circa 1940s. With its sculptural circular handle, rounded body, multiple pouring openings, and exceptionally colorful decoration, this vessel is a wonderful example of traditional Moroccan ceramic craftsmanship. The surface is richly decorated by hand with an elaborate composition inspired by Moorish and Hispano-Moresque ornament, recalling the geometric and floral vocabulary associated with the decorative arts of Granada and Andalusia. Scalloped architectural forms frame stylized floral motifs across the body, creating a rhythmic pattern in cobalt blue, turquoise, teal green, saffron orange, deep prune, black and ivory. The large loop handle is finished in a vivid turquoise-green glaze, providing a sculptural counterpoint to the intricately painted body. Small pouring spouts positioned around the shoulder further distinguish the vessel and give it an unusual architectural silhouette. Fez has been one of Morocco's most important centers of ceramic production for centuries. Its pottery traditions are particularly recognized for hand-thrown forms, mineral-based colors, strong geometric ornament and the distinctive cobalt blues and greens associated with Moroccan decorative arts. This piece combines that heritage with the exuberant polychrome palette found in particularly decorative examples made during the first half of the 20th century. At 14 inches high and 9 inches in diameter, the vessel has enough scale to stand alone as a decorative object while remaining easy to incorporate into an interior. It would be particularly effective on a console, library table, pedestal, open shelving or within a collection of Mediterranean and Islamic ceramics. Its combination of Moroccan, Moorish, Andalusian and North African design influences makes it especially appropriate for Spanish Colonial, Mediterranean, Moorish, eclectic and collected interiors. Two examples are currently available. The listed price is for ONE jug. The two can be displayed individually or purchased together to create a particularly strong symmetrical presentation on a console, mantel or large cabinet. As individually handcrafted vintage pieces, minor variations between the two are part of their character.
