Ceramics · Safi, Fes, Marrakech

Decorative Tagine

Ornate painted ceramic tagines sold as decorative objects. Distinguished from functional cooking tagines by their painted glaze, which is not food-safe at high temperatures.

History & Cultural Context

The tagine pot shape is iconic to Moroccan cuisine, with the conical lid designed to return condensation to the dish. Decorative versions became popular souvenirs in the 20th century. Tourists often confuse decorative and functional tagines.

Materials

Ceramic clayStandard pottery clay, wheel-thrown or slip-cast
Decorative glazePainted enamel glazes in traditional Moroccan patterns

Production Techniques

Wheel throwing or slip castingTraditional
Body shaped on wheel or poured into mold
Hand-paintingTraditional
Decorative patterns applied by brush

Production Notes

Wheel-thrown or slip-cast, painted with decorative glazes. Not intended for stovetop use. Functional cooking tagines are plain unglazed terracotta.

Quality Indicators

Quality

Hand-painted details with natural variationUniform wall thickness

Red Flags

Chip-prone thin glaze on cheap clay body

Price Ranges

Budget40 – 120 MAD(~$4 – $12)

Small, simple painted designs

Mid-range120 – 350 MAD(~$12 – $35)

Medium with detailed zellige or arabesque painting

Premium350 – 800 MAD(~$35 – $80)

Large, elaborate multi-color hand-painting