Antique French Alsatian Terracotta Lamb Cake Mould Two-Part Lammele Easter Mould

Antique French Terracotta Easter Lamb Cake Mould

18 cm wide

12 cm tall

10 cm depth

A wonderfully rustic two-part terracotta baking mould, traditionally used to produce a three-dimensional lamb-shaped cake or bread for Easter celebrations.

Believed to originate from Alsace or the wider Alsace-Lorraine region of France, this type of mould is commonly known as a Lammele mould. The regional custom of baking lamb-shaped cakes dates back several centuries, with the lamb representing the traditional Christian symbol of Easter. The two pottery sections would originally have been secured together with a wire spring clip before being placed upside down in the oven.

The mould has a rough, naturally aged terracotta exterior with projecting supports that allowed it to stand securely during baking. Inside, both halves are coated with a rich reddish-brown glaze and retain the moulded outline and rustic detailing of a reclining lamb. It is an especially characterful survivor of traditional European country baking and would make a fabulous display piece in a farmhouse kitchen, bakery, restaurant or collection of antique kitchenalia.

Probably dating from the late 19th to early 20th century, it appears to be unmarked and was most likely produced by a regional pottery rather than a large commercial manufacturer. Soufflenheim in Alsace remains particularly associated with these traditional two-piece terracotta lamb moulds.

The mould is offered in genuine, unrestored antique condition with considerable surface wear, staining, glaze losses, edge chips and a visible age crack to one section. The original retaining clip is no longer present, and the two halves do not close completely tightly. These imperfections are clearly photographed and contribute enormously to its wonderfully primitive, timeworn appearance.

Due to its age, condition and the unknown composition of the old glaze, this piece is offered for decorative and collectible purposes only and should not be used for preparing food.

Suggested selling price: £95

Comparable complete antique examples are currently offered from approximately £90 upwards, with cleaner examples retaining their clips commanding higher prices. The considerable wear here is balanced by the rarity, completeness of both pottery halves and strong decorative appeal.

Antique French Alsatian Terracotta Lamb Cake Mould – Two-Part Lammele Easter Mould