A wonderfully decorative set of four vintage Italian ceramic apothecary jars, each individually inscribed and decorated in a traditional blue and white palette.
The four lidded jars bear the Italian name of a traditional botanical - Bugola (Bugleweed), Ontano (Alder), Tasso (Yew) and Gelso (Mulberry) - reinforcing their wonderful old pharmacy and herbalist character. Each is surrounded by elaborate hand-painted botanical and ornamental decoration and have a tall cylindrical body raised on a spreading foot and is finished with an elegant domed lid and finial.
Inspired by traditional pharmacy and herbalist vessels, jars of this type were designed to hold dried herbs, botanical preparations and other ingredients. Today, their architectural shapes, graphic lettering and beautiful blue and white decoration make them particularly striking decorative objects.
There are subtle variations between the four jars, adding to the character of the set. Displayed together, their repeated shapes and individual inscriptions create a wonderfully strong collection.
Perfect for a kitchen, dresser, open shelving or displayed on an antique table or console, these jars work equally well in traditional and more contemporary interiors. Sold as a set of four.
Dimensions: 34.0 cm Height x 15.5 cm Diameter
Set of four vintage Italian ceramic apothecary jars
Blue and white decoration
Individual inscriptions: Bugola, Ontano, Tasso and Gelso
Removable domed lids with finials
Raised pedestal bases
Condition
These are vintage ceramic pieces and show signs of age and previous use, including small marks, variations in the glaze and minor imperfections. These are part of their character and decorative appeal.
Please study the photographs carefully as they form an important part of the description.
Sold as decorative vintage objects. We would not recommend using them for food storage.
Why We Love Them
There is something particularly appealing about a collection of old apothecary jars. The combination of the strong cylindrical forms, elegant lids, blue and white decoration and intriguing Italian inscriptions gives this set real presence.
We particularly like them displayed together. Although each jar is individually named, the repetition of the decoration and shape makes the four feel like a single decorative collection.
Styling Tip
Keep the four jars together and give them enough space to make an impact. They would look fabulous lined up on an old dresser, kitchen shelf or console, particularly against a simple background where the blue and white decoration can really stand out.
They also mix beautifully with antique pottery, old glass and natural wood.
SKU: 2382