Italian Maiolica Pharmacy Syrup Jug / Jar — "Siroppo di Cicoria" Central Italy (Deruta / Montelupo / Faenza), c.1650–1720

A handsome and rare wet drug jar of globular form with angled pouring spout and loop handle, tin-glazed in the characteristic polychrome palette of the central Italian maiolica tradition — cobalt blue, iron ochre, and copper green on a warm white ground.

The principal face carries a boldly painted heraldic cartouche enclosing a cross above three stars, flanked by the initials G.C., likely the cypher of the apothecary or a religious foundation pharmacy. Either side, naturalistic garlands of fruit and foliage — a hallmark of the period's decorative vocabulary — frame the composition with confidence and vigour.

Around the lower body, the inscription S· CICORIA identifies the vessel's original contents: Siroppo di Cicoria, or Syrup of Chicory, a staple of the Renaissance and Baroque dispensary, prescribed as a digestive aid and liver tonic.

A working object that has crossed four centuries in excellent condition, this jar speaks directly to the world of the early modern apothecary — when pharmacy was as much art as science, and the vessels that lined the shop were made to impress as well as to serve.

Historical Background: Italian Maiolica Pharmacy Jars

Between the 16th and 18th centuries, Italian apothecaries commissioned maiolica workshops to produce:

albarelli (dry drug jars)

syrup jugs (wet drug jars)

ointment pots

large storage vessels

These jars served both practical and symbolic roles — storing medicines while also projecting the prestige and learning of the apothecary. The painted labels allowed quick identification of ingredients in a pre‑industrial medical world.

Workshops in Deruta, Montelupo, and Faenza were especially known for their pharmaceutical wares, characterised by:

bold cartouches

ribbon labels

foliate scrolls

strong cobalt, ochre, and manganese palettes

Surviving examples with clear labels and good colour are increasingly sought after.

Provenance: Italy, circa 1650-1720.

Material: Earthenware with maiolica tin-glaze.

Condition: Good condition for age. Minor glaze wear and small frits typical of 17th–18th‑century maiolica. Stable craquelure to the glaze. No over‑painting or modern restoration visible. Strong colours and clear script. A well‑preserved example with excellent surface character.

Dimensions:

Height: 24 cm (9.45 in)

Width: 20 cm (7.87 in)

Depth: 15 cm (5.91 in)