This is a spectacular and very special Oil Jar, reminiscent of Roman design with the beautiful fluted decoration and racing horses. This design is unique to Tuscan terracotta production and has been created and used by our pottery for centuries. This design could well be influenced by the Palio di Sienna, which is a hugely important bareback horse race held in the Piazza del Campo twice a year in July and August. Ten riders representing their contrade daringly race at breakneck speed around the cobbled piazza. The race is deeply ritual and the rivalry extremely passionate, the sense of pride is enormous and victory for the contrada is everything and I mean everything!

This terracotta Orcio has to be placed as a very noble focal point.

Width at widest 80cm. Height 104cm