Unique Finds

Pharmacy Jar 'Basilicum'

 
Centuries ago apothecaries stored their medicinal
herbs, lotions and potions in these decorative pots,
jars and vases.
These replica apothecary jars are completely hand painted,closely following the original designs and lettering.
Real porcelain is used to ensure longevity and
to prevent damage.

Renaissance pharmacists were specialists in
the lore and scienceof herbs and traditional healing. Pharmacies sold a variety ofdrugs following recipes written in pharmacopoeias*, with specifications
approved by city authorities.
Centuries ago pharmacies were lined with shelves displaying ‘Delft’ hand painted faïence pots, vases,
bowls and boxes. The raw materials for making
medicines were stored in apothecary jars.
Typically made of glazed pottery with decorative
blue artwork, thesejars came in a variety of
shapes and sizes.
The first letter on each jar was a code for the
form of its solid or liquid contents.
“A” indicated “aqua,” or water
“O” indicated “oleum,” or oil
“U” indicated “unguentum,” or ointment
“C” indicated “conserva,” or preserves
“S” or “Si” indicated “syrupus,” or syrup
“P” indicated “piulae,” or pills
“T” indicated “trochisci,” or tablets
“E” indicated “electuarium,” or mixture
“B” indicated “balsamum,” or balm
“R” indicated “rob,” a type of jelly

Measures 21 x 28cm, 8.25 x 11.25"