A wonderfully characterful antique French stoneware faisselle, traditionally used in French dairies and farmhouse kitchens for draining fresh cheese.

Made from substantial cream-glazed stoneware, this charming little vessel is pierced with numerous drainage holes through both the sides and base, allowing the whey to drain away from the curds during cheesemaking.

The exterior has a particularly lovely rustic finish, with bands of incised decoration and areas where the warm natural clay has been deliberately left exposed beneath the creamy glaze. The irregularities in the glaze and construction are all part of its wonderfully authentic, utilitarian character.

The base is impressed with the number 3, most likely a size or pattern designation.

Once an everyday piece of French kitchen equipment, these old faisselles now make beautiful decorative objects. It would look fabulous displayed amongst antique kitchenalia or, as photographed, could be repurposed as a small planter for succulents or herbs, with the original drainage holes making it particularly suitable.

A lovely piece of genuine French country pottery with both history and charm.

Date: Circa 1900 / early 20th century

Origin: France

Material: Glazed stoneware

Dimensions: Approx. 10 cm high × 8.5 cm diameter

Condition: Good antique condition with age-related wear, firing irregularities and variations to the glaze consistent with its original utilitarian use. Please see photographs for detail.