A collection of French antique earthenware pottery faisselles or cheese strainers.

Antique Pottery Faisselles: What They Are and Decoration Inspiration

At La Maison de Belasyse, we take great pleasure in curating unique antique pieces that bring history and charm into modern homes. One of our favourite items to showcase is the antique pottery faisselle. Steeped in tradition and rustic beauty, these vessels not only tell a story of culinary heritage but also serve as versatile decor accents in your home. In this blog post, we will explore what faisselles are and how you can incorporate them into your decor.

 

What Are Antique Pottery Faisselles?

 

Faisselles are traditional French cheese moulds used in the making of fresh, soft cheeses, such as fromage blanc or faisselle cheese. These pottery pieces are typically perforated, allowing whey to drain from the curds during the cheese-making process. Made from earthenware or terracotta, they often feature a charming, rustic appearance with natural glaze variations and sometimes hand-painted decorations.

 

These utilitarian objects were once a staple in French farmhouses and dairies. Today, they are cherished for their historical value and aesthetic appeal, making them sought-after items for antique collectors and home decorators alike.

 

Decorating with Antique Pottery Faisselles

 

Antique pottery faisselles are not only conversation pieces but also versatile decor items that can enhance various areas of your home. Here are some creative ideas to help you incorporate these charming vessels into your interior design:

 

Kitchen Displays

Given their origins, faisselles make perfect decor items for the kitchen. Arrange a collection of faisselles on open shelves or in a glass-front cabinet to create a vintage-inspired display. Their rustic charm adds a touch of authenticity to a farmhouse or country-style kitchen.

 

Centrepieces

Use a faisselle as the focal point of your dining table centrepiece. Fill it with fresh flowers, dried herbs, or even seasonal fruits. The perforated design and natural texture of the pottery provide a unique contrast to the softness of flowers or the vibrancy of fruits, creating a visually appealing arrangement.

 

Bathroom Storage

Repurpose a faisselle as a storage container in your bathroom. Use it to hold rolled-up hand towels, soaps, or bath accessories. The rustic aesthetic of the faisselle adds a touch of vintage charm to your bathroom decor, making everyday items look more elegant and organized.

 

Planters

Transform your faisselles into unique planters for small indoor plants or succulents. The perforations make them well-suited for drainage, ensuring your plants stay healthy. Place them on windowsills, side tables, or as part of a larger plant arrangement to bring a bit of greenery and rustic flair into your home.

 

Tealight Holders

Smaller faisselles can be beautifully repurposed as tealight holders. The perforations allow the candlelight to shine through, creating a warm and inviting ambiance. Place these tealight holders on your living room coffee table, dining room centrepiece, or outdoor patio to add a cosy and romantic touch to any setting.

 

Artistic Displays

Incorporate faisselles into a larger decorative arrangement on a mantelpiece, sideboard, or console table. Pair them with other antique pottery, vintage books, and decorative objects to create an eclectic, layered look that exudes character and history.

Antique French pottery faisselles or cheese moulds in terracotta earthenware.

 

Embrace the Charm of Faisselles

 

Antique pottery faisselles are more than just cheese moulds; they are pieces of history that bring warmth and personality to any space. Whether used functionally or decoratively, these vessels add a touch of French rustic charm that is both timeless and appealing.

 

At La Maison de Belasyse, we offer a curated selection of antique faisselles and other unique pieces that help you infuse your home with a sense of history and style. Explore our collection and find the perfect faisselle to complement your decor.

 

For more inspiration and decorating tips, check out our blog and follow us on Pinterest and Instagram. Happy decorating!

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