Earthenware drug jar, China,

Earthenware drug jar, probably for holding ginger, with wooden stopper, Chinese

Apothecaries used vessels to store materials such as dried herbs, minerals and other medicines. This Chinese earthenware drug jar has a wooden stopper. It is decorated with a waterside scene. Mountains and a tiered traditional dwelling are in the foreground. It is thought to have stored ginger (Zingiber officinale). This root has medicinal and culinary purposes.