albarello (Storage Jar)

A note found inside reads “Jar from the workshop of Giunta di Tugio. Florence 1431.” The di Tugio workshop did supply hundreds of jars for the pharmacy of the hospital Santa Maria Nova in 1431, but this jar would have been a later date. "DG," written on one of the handles, stands for Decoctum Galene—“decoction of tranquility.” Galene is also the name of the Greek goddess of calm seas. The jar was probably made in Florence between 1560 and 1600, when this decoction was reviving in popularity, distinguished by designs of oak-leaf sprays, birds, humans, animals, and heraldic devices painted mainly in blue.

functional; decorative

tin-glazed

Bulbous eathenware jar with 2 flat loop handles ("dg" under), flat base with splayed foot, short neck with flanged rim. On one side a bird and leaves, on other a rampant lion and leaves. Sides, neck and base delineated with fine blue and purple-brown lines.