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[A legend of love]
Handmade by Mr Ripullo Caltagizone in Sicily, Italy in the 2000s.
DETAILS
Item: Sicilian Testa Di More Femmina [Female] Vase
Era: 2000s
Country of origin: Italy
Designer/Artist/Producer: Mr Ripullo Caltagizone
Material: Ceramic (hollow inside)
STORY
A ceramic vase shaped like a Moor's head is a symbol of Sicily, Italy. These vases often embellish the balconies, living rooms and gardens of Sicilian homes.
Per Sicilian tradition, these ceramic heads are a symbol of love. However, the story behind them is not all rainbows and butterflies.
The legend tells a love story in 1100, during the Arabian domination.
The story goes that there was a beautiful girl in Sicily. A young Moor fell in love with her, and his love was deeply requited. Their love was however, soon discovered and the two were beheaded.
The heads of both were turned into vases and placed on a balcony so that everyone could know the shame of that love. This is why the Testa di Moro are made in pairs.
Now though, the two are a symbol of eternal love.
MEASUREMENTS
Dimensions: 130mm x 100mm