Carafes and pitchers: utilitarian objects or genuine works of art?

Christine Robalo | 10/17/24

Carafes, jugs and pitchers, once simple utensils, become artistic pieces. Thanks to the talent of designers and craftsmen, these objects combine utility and aesthetics, transforming themselves into sculptures.

The boundary between the useful and the beautiful has never been so thin, and decanters and pitchers are the perfect example. Once simple containers for holding water or wine, these objects have gradually risen to become "table must-haves" in new restaurants. Adorned with animal figures, finely mouth-blown, representing fruit elements or roughly carved from clay, these containers now proudly take pride of place on the tables of fashionable places in the capital and beyond.

A journey through time

Historically, decanters, pitchers and jugs have evolved through the ages, but their utilitarian vocation has always prevailed. As far back as Antiquity, jugs, made of terracotta, were mainly used to carry wine or water. The Romans and Gauls saw them as a daily necessity. Over time, these vessels became more sophisticated with the arrival of earthenware and porcelain, giving them a nobler dimension.

But it wasn't until the 19th century, at the height of the Victorian era, that decanters and pitchers really took on an artistic touch. Finely cut crystal pieces, often decorated with silver or colored glass elements, became prized objects, displayed on the tables of aristocratic families. This period marked a turning point, with extravagantly shaped claret jugs, often sculpted in luxurious materials.

The 50s and 60s also marked a flourishing period for decanters and pitchers. Renowned designers explored materials such as blown glass and ceramics. Pieces such as the decanters by Danish designer Jacob Bang or the smoked glass creations associated with mid-century design became icons, highly prized by collectors.

Between functionality and table art

Today, decanters and pitchers are no longer content to play second fiddle on our tables. They have become the undisputed stars of the art of entertaining, sometimes eccentric, sometimes minimalist, but always remarkable. Take Big Mamma, for example: it's impossible not to notice their Italian decanters, hand-painted artisanal pieces that transform any dinner into a Mediterranean escapade. Let's face it, who hasn't dreamed of carrying one discreetly under the arm? For the more cautious, these pieces can also be found in decorating stores, from high-end brands, from cutting-edge artisans, or even found during a weekend at a flea market.

Coq bleu pitcher, Molleni, €70 - Chat pitcher, Bordallo Pinheiro, €112 - Momento decanter by Jaime Hayon, &tradition c/o MadeinDesign, €163.20 - Tulip decanter, &klevering, €59.95 - Carafe Muguet, Dior, €450 - Pichet Vaest, Villa Collection, €71.95 - Artifacts, Valerie Objet & White Dirt, €42.52 -Carafe Niolon, Margaux Keller, €170

On the Côte d'Opale, a trip to Berck-sur-Mer has a delicious taste of childhood. It's not just the International Kite Festival that attracts visitors. You can also enjoy an enchanted interlude in the Succès Berckois store, a confectionery that, like one of Proust's madeleines, nourishes the fragrant memories of a weekend spent by the North Sea.

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