Tin-glazed earthenware drug jar, polychrome decoration, from Sicily, 1629
The earthenware drug jar has the date and the initials “SPQR” painted on to the side, which stand for Senatus Populusque Romanus (“The Senate and People of Rome”). The decoration includes a bearded man with outstretched arms and the trophies and spoils of war – the defeated enemies’ shields, armour, drums and musical instruments. These trophies would be displayed on a battlefield or a public place to commemorate a military victory.
Details
- Category:
- Medical Ceramic-ware
- Collection:
- Sir Henry Wellcome's Museum Collection
- Object Number:
- A643277
- Materials:
- earthenware (tin-glazed)
- Measurements:
-
overall: 303 mm 243 mm, 2.22kg
- type:
- drug jar