Collections Database

Description:
The inscription refers to Matthew’s Pills (Pilulae Mathaei), a preparation marketed as having sedative effects. Richard Matthew based his formula on pills developed by 17th-century English doctor George Starkey for the treatment of mental illness. The pills' ingredients included opium extract, black and white hellebore, licorice, and other ingredients. Horatio Jones of Stockbridge, MA, advertised Matthew's Pills in the Western Star (Stockbridge, MA) on May 13, 1794. Drug jar, probably London, England, 1750-1775. Tin-glazed earthenware (delftware) with cobalt blue decoration. Inscribed: “P:MATHAEI” The jar has paper labels on the bottom for the "John Philip Kassebaum Collection", Lothian Collection, faintly printed labels for "Sampson Antiques," and one written "L Bristol/ 1750."

Tags:
medicine

Link to share this object record:
https://museums.fivecolleges.edu/detail.php?t=objects&type=ext&id_number=HD+2022.19.14

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