Coppia Testa di Moro in Ceramic Couple - Sicilian Head (Both heads included) - HAND-PAINTED

The Legend:

The "Testa di Moro" or "Moor's Head" is a popular figure in Sicilian iconography, steeped in legend and history, and reflecting the diverse cultural influences that have shaped Sicily's identity over the centuries. Predominantly seen on ceramic pots, plates, and tiles, the Moor's Head remains an important symbol of Sicilian folklore, tradition, and craftsmanship.

The origin of the Moor's Head dates back to the period of Arab domination in Sicily, which lasted from 831 to 1072.

According to the tale, in the 11th century, a beautiful young woman lived in the Kalsa district of Palermo. A passionate gardener, she loved tending to the exotic plants on her balcony. One day, a Moor merchant, who was passing by, was struck by her beauty. He declared his love for her and she reciprocated, but their euphoria was shattered when she discovered that he had a wife and children waiting for him in his native land.

Overwhelmed by jealousy and desperation, she decided that if she couldn't have him, then no one else could either. In a fit of rage, she waited until he fell asleep, then decapitated him with a sharp ax. To ensure he'd stay with her forever, she used his severed head as a plant pot. Miraculously, the plant she placed inside flourished and bloomed like never before. When her neighbors noticed the lush plants and asked her secret, she remained silent, and they began to follow her example, creating ceramic pots in the shape of the Moor's head.