Antique French Walnut Oil Jug

A utilitarian vessel used for storing walnut oil in the south of France in its former life, these primitive one-of-a-kind jugs are now works of art meant to be showcased. Having two handles and a pouring spout, the jugs are hand-crafted from terracotta and bear a green glaze. Their rustic form and time-worn patina make them a beautiful decorative addition to any room in the home.

History of Walnut Oil: historical evidence shows that walnuts originated in Persia and were first cultivated by the Greeks. Brought into the rest of Europe by the Romans, walnuts became highly regarded in France, where they began cultivating them in the 14th century. It takes nearly four pounds of walnuts to press a single quart of walnut oil. Known for its wide variety of uses such as food, medicinal purposes, fuel for oil lamps, and dye for hair, wool, and cloth, one of the lesser-known uses for walnut oil was its employment in the embalming process of Egyptian mummies. European artists even preferred the use of walnut oil to mix with pigments for use in paintings, and chemical analysis confirms the use of walnut oil in the French impressionist paintings of Monet, Cezanne, and Pissarro.

Listing is for one (1) walnut oil jug. Please select the number matching the jug to purchase below.

• Found in France, circa 1790

• The jugs are hand-thrown and have a slightly irregular shape

• Character marks, chips, crazing, and some slight discoloration are present

• Remnants of oil residue that has leached over time are present

• Overall signs of wear consistent with age and use

• Measurements below are approximate

1. Walnut Oil Jug #1: approximately 9.75” W x 12.75” H; opening measures 3.125” W

2. Walnut Oil Jug #2: approximately 11” W x 14.5” H; opening measures 3.25” W

Available for pick up, local delivery, and nationwide shipping.

Request a trade discount here.