Hand-painted with a coat of arms supported by a pair of rampant lions, this lidded Italian apothecary jar dates to the 1800s. The ground of the jar is true white, which provides a stark contrast from the gold, green, and blue of the coat of arms and other surrounding accoutrement. A removable lid, which has a ball finial painted gold and green, is adorned with several rings of paint, including two pairs of thin blue lines and some thicker ones of green and gold. Other motifs include “1636” beneath the heraldic display, an open five-point crown on top of the coat of arms, and stylized blue flowers.

Apothecary jars were used as early as the 7th century, concurrently in the Middle East and China. Arab and Chinese traders would later introduce these vessels to Italy during the Renaissance, where they were given the name albarello (plural: albarelli). The motifs and forms were altered to suit the use of Italian pharmacies, where they would be used to hold ointments, herbs, and other remedies. Today, they have a variety of uses, ranging from beautiful decorative accessories to a kitchen utensil holder or vase for fresh cut flowers.

CONDITION: Good antique condition. Fleabites with slight losses and rubs. Commensurate buildup.