albarello (Storage Jar)

The inscription Ug·Fuscu is shorthand for unguentum fuscum, a salve prepared from pine tar, frankincense, mastic, wax, and other herbal ingredients, used during the sixteenth century for the treatment of external varicose ulcers. Perhaps the most famous person afflicted with this ailment was Henry VIII, who apparently acquired it from too much strenuous “tilting in the lists.” Contrary to popular belief, the symptoms were not associated with syphilis. In fact, Henry VIII was one of the few crowned heads of Europe who did not suffer from the disease.

functional; decorative

tin-glazed

Cylindrical shaped jar with flat base, narrowed and ridged waist, slightly flaring shoulder and flanged rim. Design bands of lightly drawn arches on neck, vertical stripes on upper body, "U3 fussu" in cartouche on lower body, wavy dashes on foot.