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Antique Portuguese Handmade Terracotta Upright Vessel - 3 Available

$650.00

Formed by hand in 19th century Portugal, these terracotta vessels carry a history shaped as much by the sea as by the maker.

They spent years submerged underwater, where time left its own mark—soft encrustations, mineral deposits, and a surface that feels almost geological. Each vessel bears a distinct record of its immersion—calcium blooms, worn edges, and organic accretions that soften the clay’s original warmth.

There is a balance here between intention and erosion. The hand-shaped form speaks to craft, while the sea’s imprint introduces an element of chance. Together, they create objects that feel unearthed rather than made.

Placed individually, they read as artifacts. Grouped, they become a study in variation—tone, texture, and time.

Sold and priced individually.

DIMENSIONS: 10"W x 8.5"D x 12.5"H

ADDITIONAL DIMENSIONS: Medium 9.5"W x 8"D x 11"H;
Small 8"W x 8"D x 10"H

ORIGIN: Portugal

PERIOD: 19th Century

MATERIALS: Terracotta

CONDITION: In good antique condition, with surface wear consistent with age and use. The terracotta shows areas of weathering, mineral accretion, and organic encrustation acquired during prolonged submersion at sea, including adhered shell fragments and calcified deposits.

The surfaces are irregular and textured, with natural variations in tone and size. Edges are softened, and the patina is deeply developed, giving each vessel a distinct, time-worn character.

Item Location

This item is located in our warehouse.

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Our Warehouse is located 10 minutes from our Showroom in Chicago's River West Neighborhood. Please click here to schedule a viewing.

Shipping, Delivery, and Pick Up

This item ships via UPS Ground Shipping

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  • Nationwide White Glove Delivery
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Returns

All Sales Are Final. If you have any hesitation prior to purchase or would like more details, we would love to share more photos and answer any questions!  South Loop Loft neither assumes nor offers any warranty on vintage, or refinished/reupholstered items after items leave our showroom. View our full policy here.

Questions?
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Antique Portuguese Handmade Terracotta Upright Vessel - 3 Available

Formed by hand in 19th century Portugal, these terracotta vessels carry a history shaped as much by the sea as by the maker.

They spent years submerged underwater, where time left its own mark—soft encrustations, mineral deposits, and a surface that feels almost geological. Each vessel bears a distinct record of its immersion—calcium blooms, worn edges, and organic accretions that soften the clay’s original warmth.

There is a balance here between intention and erosion. The hand-shaped form speaks to craft, while the sea’s imprint introduces an element of chance. Together, they create objects that feel unearthed rather than made.

Placed individually, they read as artifacts. Grouped, they become a study in variation—tone, texture, and time.

Sold and priced individually.

Dimensions
Width: 10"
Depth: 8.5"
Height: 12.5"
Additional Dimensions: Medium 9.5"W x 8"D x 11"H; Small 8"W x 8"D x 10"H
Origin: Portugal
Period: 19th Century
Materials: Terracotta
Condition
In good antique condition, with surface wear consistent with age and use. The terracotta shows areas of weathering, mineral accretion, and organic encrustation acquired during prolonged submersion at sea, including adhered shell fragments and calcified deposits. The surfaces are irregular and textured, with natural variations in tone and size. Edges are softened, and the patina is deeply developed, giving each vessel a distinct, time-worn character.

685 N. Milwaukee Avenue, Chicago, IL 60642 | southlooploft.com | (312) 291-8479