pierced jar

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• Allison asked

  What were jars like this used for? Draining cheese?

• Museum Boijmans Van Beuningen answered

  Hi Allison, until this day we are still not exactly sure about the use of these pierced jars. It is likely that these jars were used for several purposes. Some researchers state that pierced jars like these were used transport embers or burning wood from one fireplace to another. This way it was easier and safer to make a fire. Others think that this jar could be used to grow leek, like onions and celery; the leek would grow through the holes. There is also a possibility that it was used as a perfume burner, or to prepare chestnuts. As you can see, there are many ways to use this jar. What would you do with it? All the best, Tanja van Oostrum