Earthenware pharmacy jar

Made:
1644-1911 in China
Earthenware pharmacy jar, glazed, Chinese

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Earthenware pharmacy jar, glazed, Chinese
Science Museum Group Collection
© The Board of Trustees of the Science Museum

Earthenware pharmacy jar, glazed, with lid, Chinese, Ching dynasty (1644-1911)

Vessels such as this earthenware pharmacy jar were used by apothecaries. They stored materials such as dried herbs, minerals and other medicines. This Chinese example dates from the Ching dynasty (1644-1911). It is decorated with cherry blossom and bamboo leaves. These are widely used motifs within Asian cultures. The jar is very large and heavy. A small spout is formed in the shape of an anthropomorphic figure (part human, part animal). The vessel stored liquids.

Details

Category:
Asian Medicine
Collection:
Sir Henry Wellcome's Museum Collection
Object Number:
A204301
Materials:
earthenware (glazed)
Measurements:
overall: 440 cm x 350 mm x 260 mm, 4.16kg
type:
drug jar
credit:
Wellcome Trust (Purchased from Stevens)