Tin-glazed earthenware dispensing pot, inscribed S.C.V., English, dated 1700

Dispensing pots were used to hold ointments, pills and medical treatments, although they could also be used other materials such as cosmetics. A pharmacist or apothecary would make up a medicine and put it in a pot for the customer to take away. The contents were usually protected by a paper cover secured with string.

On the side of this dispensing pot are painted the letters “S.C.V”. These may refer to a maker, an owner or may indicate what the pot held. This dispensing pot is also marked with the date “1700”.