This vessel has been used to its very core and some would say past the point of repair. In many rural parts of Romania, people used terracotta vessels for a multitude of everyday uses, including to prepare and cook meals in, such as meat stews which included rabbit or other hunted game layered between varying strata of vegetables.
This pot, like many, may contain two arms, but they are placed near each other in contrast to the customary opposing sides.
The reason behind this decision?
Long before the average household had a cooktop, many families cooked over open flame, whether outside or by the fireplace. Keeping both handles on one side of the vessel ensured the user more safety and control when cooking.
This is characterised clearly by the impression of the flames’ heat on what would be considered the outer side of this stew pot.
In some cases, these vessels would crack under the intense heat, which would lead to their disposal. They were seen as expendable, utilitarian objects despite their craft and decorative appeal.
This charming terracotta pot contains two cracks, delicate in their appearance but nevertheless present due to their old age and exhausted consumption.
*Our pieces at Studio Zagara may show signs of age and wear, which is just how we like them. They carry with them years of history, so any imperfections should not be viewed as damaged or flawed, but rather the combined stories of people’s lives and experiences.
