Albarello drug jar used for Balsam of the Philosophers, Italy, 1701-1800

Made:
1701-1800 in Veneto
18th century North Italian, probably Veneto C17 North Italian blue and white albarello vase from Liguria

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18th century North Italian, probably Veneto
Science Museum Group
© The Board of Trustees of the Science Museum

C17 North Italian blue and white albarello vase from Liguria
Science Museum Group Collection
© The Board of Trustees of the Science Museum

18th century North Italian, probably Veneto, blue and white albarello vase from Liguria, used for balm of wisdom

The drug once stored in this jar has its origins in alchemy. Called the ‘Balsam of Wisdom or Philosophers’, it was expensive and highly sought after. Used as a protector from plague, the balsam contained a secret oil of philosophers. Also known as ‘Oil of Brick’, ‘Oil of Philosophers’ was obtained by subjecting a brick soaked in oil – usually olive oil – to distillation at high temperatures.

Apart from plague, the resulting balsam could be used for pretty much anything, including fevers, nosebleeds, gout, stones in the bladder, wounds, aches, pains and paralysis.

Details

Category:
Medical Ceramic-ware
Collection:
Sir Henry Wellcome's Museum Collection
Object Number:
A631936
Materials:
pottery, blue and white
Measurements:
overall: 175 mm 122 mm, .57kg
type:
drug jar