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LicenseFrom left to right: Earthenware dispensing pot, tin glazed
Science Museum Group Collection
© The Board of Trustees of the Science Museum
Earthenware dispensing pot, tin-glazed, possibly London, 1720-1780
Dispensing pots were used to hold ointments, pills and medical treatments, although they could also be used for 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.
This example has the word “Caloffs” painted on the side. No trace of “Caloffs” has been found but it may relate to a pharmacist, maker of the pots or refer to the contents.
Details
- Category:
- Medical Ceramic-ware
- Collection:
- Sir Henry Wellcome's Museum Collection
- Object Number:
- A151371
- Materials:
- earthenware (tin-glazed)
- Measurements:
-
overall: 48 mm 54 mm, .08kg
- type:
- dispensing pot
- credit:
- Wellcome Trust (Purchased from Stevens)
