Vintage Michel Caugant Goose Terrine – French Ceramic Pâté Dish | Country Kitchen Décor

A wonderfully characterful vintage French goose terrine by Michel Caugant, beautifully modelled and hand decorated to resemble a resting goose.

Michel Caugant is particularly well known for these wonderful animal-shaped ceramic terrines, originally produced in France as presentation vessels for pâté and other delicacies. Once the contents had been enjoyed, the decorative ceramic container was designed to be kept – which is why these distinctive pieces can still be discovered in French homes and brocantes today.

This example depicts a white goose, with beautifully moulded feather detailing across the body and wings and hand-painted features bringing its face to life. The rich orange beak and feet provide a lovely contrast against the creamy white glaze.

The upper section lifts away to reveal the terrine beneath, making this both an interesting piece of vintage French kitchenware and a wonderfully decorative object.

Today, I think its real appeal is as French country kitchen décor. Display it on an old dresser, kitchen shelf or farmhouse table amongst antique ironstone, confit pots, wooden boards and other brocante finds. It would also make a brilliant centrepiece for a collection of vintage French animal terrines.

Dimensions

It measures 22cm long, 10cm wide and 20cm tall

Condition

It is in great vintage condition. There is one very small chip which is shown in the photos but it is not visible when the goose is on display.

Why We Like It

There is something wonderfully French about these Michel Caugant terrines. They're practical objects that were made far more decorative than they ever really needed to be – and that's precisely their charm.

The goose is particularly appealing, with its sculptural shape and wonderfully detailed plumage. Even someone who knows nothing about Michel Caugant pieces is likely to stop and take a closer look at it.

From the Brocante Trail

Michel Caugant's animal terrines have become increasingly collectable, with an extraordinary variety of birds and animals produced over the years.

Originally associated with French pâté and charcuterie, they now make fantastic decorative pieces for kitchens and country interiors. Finding the different animals is half the fun, and they look particularly effective displayed together as a collection.

Every treasure has a story. This one found us on the Brocante trail. Now it’s waiting to become part of yours.