Ceramic vases in the shape of a Moor's head are so widespread in Sicily that they have become one of the representative symbols of the island. These vases, (or “graste ” in Sicilian dialect) emblem of Sicilian culture and art , adorned the balconies of homes for centuries and today they are increasingly used as a decorative element in the living rooms of Sicilians and beyond. The singular shape of these vases comes from the refined craftsmanship, according to the ancient techniques of Caltagirone ceramics.