Life

A fugera was a household vessel used to preserve embers, its name derived from the Venetian word foghera (fire). Though sometimes made of clay, it was usually a metal container that functioned as a primitive version of today’s microwave or electric grill. Women would carry their fugera through the neighborhood, collecting leftover embers from ovens, then use it to cook meals outdoors – typically in a courtyard. On a simple metal plate placed over the embers, fish or a small piece of meat would be grilled. Meals were eaten standing up, often joined by neighbors, in what could be seen as an early version of today’s trendy finger food.