The interlacing band motifs on this Italian albarello jar are quite mesmerizing. Hand-painted in the 1800s, this majolica apothecary container has an arabesque of white bands, partially filled with orange lines. Offset by a royal blue ground, the bands’ weaving truly stands out, forming a beautiful surface to the roughly cylindrical jar. The neck and the foot are painted white, with a repeating lozenge key motif wrapped around the concave neck, set between two bands of blue.

Pharmacy 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 and minor losses to paint. Commensurate buildup.