17thC Italian Antique Maiolica Dry Drug Jar Bearing the Label "Loppoli", circa 1600-1650

This small two‑handled apothecary vase originates from the Florentine region and dates to the early decades of the 17th century. The body is decorated with traditional foliate scrolls in blue, yellow‑green, and manganese brown — a palette and style closely associated with Tuscan maiolica workshops of this period.

At the centre is a painted cartouche bearing the inscription “LUPPOLI”, meaning “hops”. In early modern apothecary practice, hops were valued not only for brewing but also for their medicinal properties, including calming, digestive, and preservative uses. Jars of this type would have been part of a larger pharmacy set, each labelled for a specific herb, resin, or compound.

Wear includes small chips, glaze losses, and a section of the neck that has been reattached. The photographs provide an accurate representation of its condition.

A closely related example — inscribed “MIRRA” — was sold at auction some years ago, and both pieces appear to originate from the same artisan workshop, sharing identical proportions, palette, and decoration.

Provenance: Tuscany, Italy. Early 17th century. Acquired directly from a private Italian collection.

Material: Earthenware body with maiolica glaze.

Condition: Please refer to the images. Surface wear is commensurate with age and includes small chips, glaze losses, and a section of the neck that has been reattached. The photographs provide an accurate representation of its condition. All in all, the jar displays well.

Dimensions: 

Height: 17.5 cm (6.9 in)

Width: 15 cm (5.9 in)

Depth: 16 cm (6.3 in)

This is a charming survivor of early 17th‑century Florentine pharmacy practice, and a beautifully decorative piece of Tuscan maiolica in its own right.