Syrup jar, tin glazed earthenware, songbird motif, used for aperient rose syrup, English, 1670-1740
This drug jar has the label “SYR: ROSARSOL”, which can be translated from the Latin as “syrup of roses”. This was a preparation mentioned in ancient Greek texts and for many centuries was used mainly as a purgative and laxative.
Drug jars have a number of different shapes, design motifs and decorative styles which can help date the objects. This jar has an unusually straight spout and handle. It also carries a relatively crudely executed design which is typical of numerous English jars of the period. A winged cherub below the base of the spout is a common feature and the jar also features a songbird motif in blue and white.
Details
- Category:
- Medical Ceramic-ware
- Collection:
- Sir Henry Wellcome's Museum Collection
- Object Number:
- A634409
- Materials:
- earthenware (tin glazed)
- Measurements:
-
overall: 193 mm x 215 mm 145 mm, 0.98kg
- type:
- syrup jar