An exceptional pair of monumental Moroccan glazed ceramic urns, handcrafted in Fez circa 1950 and distinguished by their commanding scale, rich coloration and elaborate Arabic calligraphic decoration.
Standing 33 inches high and measuring 16 inches in diameter each, these impressive floor-standing vessels have elegant baluster-shaped bodies surmounted by coordinating fitted lids. Their substantial proportions and strong vertical silhouettes give them an architectural presence rarely encountered in Moroccan decorative pottery.
Each urn is covered in a deep, saturated green glaze contrasted against a warm earthen-brown ground. Flowing bands of Arabic calligraphy have been individually incised and carved into the ceramic surface, creating a richly textured design that changes in appearance as light moves across the vessels. The restrained two-color palette allows the intricacy of the lettering and the sculptural contours of the urns to remain the principal focus.
The calligraphic decoration reflects the extraordinary importance of the written form within Islamic and Moorish art, where letters are appreciated not only for their meaning but also for their rhythm, balance and visual beauty. Here, the script functions as an ornamental composition, encircling the vessels with expressive movement. The precise wording of the calligraphy has not been independently translated.
Handcrafted in Fez, one of Morocco’s most celebrated centers of ceramic production, the urns demonstrate the region’s long tradition of combining thrown earthenware, carved decoration and brilliant glazing. Their layered surfaces and monumental forms also evoke the calligraphic and arabesque ornament found throughout historic Hispano-Moresque architecture, including the palaces and courtyards of Granada and Andalusia.
As a matched pair, the urns offer exceptional decorative versatility. They could flank a grand fireplace, Moorish archway, console table or entrance hall, or provide dramatic symmetry within a library, staircase landing or Mediterranean-style interior. They would be equally effective in a protected loggia or covered courtyard, where their deep green glaze would complement limestone, plaster, carved wood and antique textiles. Because they are vintage ceramics, sheltered decorative use is recommended.
The pair is presented in good vintage condition with wear and surface variations consistent with age, previous use and traditional hand production. Natural differences in the glaze, carving and form should be appreciated as evidence of their individually handcrafted character. Any use with water should be preceded by professional testing or the addition of watertight liners.
Sold as a set of two.
Each urn measures 33 inches high by 16 inches in diameter.
A rare and highly sculptural pair for collectors of Moroccan pottery, Islamic calligraphy, Moorish decorative arts and monumental architectural objects.
Moroccan ceramic urns, Fez pottery, Arabic calligraphy ceramics, monumental lidded urns, green glazed pottery, Moorish decorative arts, Islamic calligraphic art, Moroccan floor vases, Hispano-Moresque décor, Andalusian interior design, hand-incised ceramics, vintage Moroccan pottery.
