Description:
Wet drugs such as oils, syrups, and liquids were stored in spouted, bulbous vessels with conical feet. This container held syrup of rhubarb, a purgative made by dissolving sugar in an infusion of rhubarb root. The initials “BF” were probably those of the apothecary who ordered this jar as part of a set. Syrup Jar, London (possibly Southwark), England, c. 1670-1690. tin-glazed earthenware, decorated in cobalt blue, thrown round globular body with outurned rim for a cover, attached protruding pouring spout opposite strap handle, set upon a conical hollow foot, Painted cartouche in blue with scrolls and fleur de lis at center bottom, vertical flower sprays at both ends of the cartouche, Inscribed in blue “S:DE:RHADA RB” and “BF”, the addition of such initials are rare as is this particular cartouche, the fleur de lis motif is known on a drug jar dated 1670, The D in RHADA has been later corrected to B. (Short for Rhabarb, also spelled RHEI), clay body under conical base is not glazed and slightly pink, Condition: a small wedge shaped section of foot has been broken out and reattached.
Tags:
medicine Link to share this object record:
https://museums.fivecolleges.edu/detail.php?t=objects&type=ext&id_number=HD+2022.19.15 |
