Large Peloponnese Greek Olive Oil Pot in Beehive Ribbed Design

19th century Large Greek Olive Oil Pot - 

This 19th-century Greek olive oil pot is a stunning piece of antique Mediterranean craftsmanship from the Peloponnese region of Greece. Featuring a classic beehive ribbed design, it is a quintessential example of the artistry and practicality that defined Greek pottery in the mid-1800s.

Handcrafted in Greece, Circa 1860

This authentic 19th-century Greek olive oil pot was meticulously handmade from terracotta clay, reflecting the timeless traditions of Greek artisans. The pot is adorned with the typical handcrafted ribbed Nekuma decoration that embellishes its rounded bodice, adding both texture and historical significance. Its design demonstrates the fusion of form and function, as the ribbing adds visual interest and strengthens the pot for daily use.

The rolled rim at the top, accented by a subtle colour glaze finish, elevates its aesthetic appeal while preserving its rustic charm. This glaze provides a smooth transition between its utilitarian purpose and its decorative potential, making it a perfect centrepiece for antique collections or garden displays.

Historic Functionality and Use

Dating back to circa 1860, these antique Greek olive oil jars were essential vessels for the storage and transportation of olive oil across the Mediterranean. The Peloponnese, a hub for olive oil production in the 19th century, contributed significantly to the cultural and economic landscape of the region. Posts like this one were robustly built to endure the rigours of transport, ensuring the safe storage of valuable commodities like olive oil and other goods.

Today, these historic Greek terracotta pots are treasured not only for their practical origins but also for their timeless beauty. Their handcrafted detailing and historical significance make them highly sought after by collectors, antique enthusiasts, and garden designers alike.

A Timeless Addition to Your Collection

This large Greek olive oil pot offers more than just historical charm—it provides versatility as a decorative item. Whether placed in a garden, displayed in a rustic kitchen, or used as a standalone art piece, its distinctive beehive ribbed design enhances any setting. Its warm, earthy tones and traditional craftsmanship capture the essence of 19th-century Greek pottery, bringing a piece of history into modern spaces.

Available in Sussex

If you're searching for authentic antique Greek olive oil pots in Sussex, this piece is a rare find. Perfect for antique garden displays or historical pottery collections, it connects you to a bygone era of Mediterranean life. Its mid-19th-century origins and handmade terracotta construction make it a valuable addition for anyone seeking antique Greek pottery in Sussex or beyond.

Why Choose This 19th-Century Greek Olive Oil Pot?

• Authenticity: Crafted in Greece circa 1860, this pot is an original piece of history.
• Handmade Detail: The ribbed design and terracotta clay showcase expert craftsmanship.
• Decorative and Functional: Suitable for both display and practical garden use.
• Rare Find: Ideal for antique collectors or enthusiasts in Sussex.

Don’t miss the opportunity to own this historic Greek olive oil pot. With its beehive ribbed design, rolled rim, and glaze accents, it embodies the perfect blend of antique Mediterranean artistry and modern decorative appeal.

Condition

Weathered condition, wear, and fading are consistent with age and use.

Measurements

Height 90 cm

Circumference 200 cm

Opening 24 cm

Weight approx 50 Kg

🔎 Provenance Story

This monumental olive oil pot came to us from an estate near Kalamata in the Peloponnese, a region steeped in olive-growing history. We acquired it directly from a family who had held the piece for generations — it once stood at the entrance to their hillside orchard, half-buried in stone and surrounded by ancient olive trees.

Dating to around 1860, the pot was hand-thrown using traditional terracotta techniques and finished with the signature beehive ribbing known locally as nekuma — a functional detail designed to fortify the structure and aid in grip during transport. The soft glaze around the rim, faded from decades of sun and sea air, hints at its life near the coast, where such jars were used to store and cool olive oil in shaded storage rooms.

What we love about this piece is its scale, its quiet authority, and its visible story. The wear is honest—earned. It wasn't made for show, but it has become a sculpture in its own right. Whether you place it in a garden or interior space, you're not just styling — you're preserving a fragment of Mediterranean rural life.

🚚 Delivery & Viewing – Sussex Based:

Available to view in Sussex

Local delivery: Sussex, Kent, Surrey, London

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