Old BERBER KABYLE POTTERY - Milk or Water Jug in Terracotta "Taghza" or "Taghzit" decorated with traditional geometric symbols. Period: First half of the 20th century Height: 21 cm, Diameter: 20 cm Neck diameter: 12 cm - Base: 11 cm Weight: 1800 g Origin: Morocco / Algeria - Dispersed from a private collection of G. Berthel (1920-1998) from the 1950s Fast and careful shipping via Colissimo with signature and insurance. The packages are packed and prepaid for shipping as soon as they are listed online. Therefore, there are no combined shipments for multiple orders. The traditional Berber milk jug is often called a "taghza" or "taghzit." This term may vary slightly depending on different Berber regions and dialects. These traditional vessels are used in many Berber cultures to store and transport milk. They are often handmade and decorated with typical regional motifs. Berber and Kabyle terracotta pottery is not only a testament to traditional craftsmanship but also a rich cultural expression. Kabylia, a mountainous region of Algeria inhabited by Berbers, is renowned for its unique pottery that combines aesthetics and functionality. Presentation Kabyle pottery is characterized by its color, which comes from local clay. They are often decorated with geometric and floral motifs, reflecting the cultural heritage and beliefs of the artisans. Shapes vary from jars to plates, as well as water containers and cooking pots. Manufacturing The process begins with collecting clay, which is then kneaded to remove impurities. Artisans shape the pottery by hand, using traditional wheel-throwing or modeling techniques. Once shaped, the pieces are air-dried before being fired in a clay kiln at high temperatures. The firing process gives the pottery its strength and durability. Artisans often decorate the pieces either before or after firing, applying colored slips or engraving motifs. Usage Kabyle terracotta pottery has diverse uses, from domestic tasks to cultural rituals. Jars are used to store water and foodstuffs, while dishes and plates are for preparing and serving meals. Some pottery items are also used during ceremonies such as weddings and festivals, where they hold symbolic importance. Symbolism Kabyle pottery is imbued with symbolism. Decorative motifs and shapes express spiritual beliefs and community values. For example, some motifs symbolize fertility, protection, or prosperity. Moreover, the craft of pottery is often passed down through generations, symbolizing cultural continuity and Berber identity. These Kabyle terracotta pottery pieces are a blend of art, functionality, and culture. They represent a living heritage, preserved and transmitted through generations, while remaining an essential part of daily life in the region.