Syrup jar used for Syrup of Roses, England, 1670-1740

Syrup jar, tin glazed earthenware, songbird motif

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Syrup jar, tin glazed earthenware, songbird motif
Science Museum Group Collection
© The Board of Trustees of the Science Museum

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