English Delftware Drug Jar: Later songbirds design, 1690-1720

Description

The ‘later songbirds’ design appeared at the beginning of the 1700s and was used on English Delftware drug jars until around 1770.
It uses elements from both the ‘early songbirds’ and ‘Apollo and peacocks’ designs.
The contents label is formed by a thick wavy line, above in the centre is a basket of fruit and the songbirds either side.
Similar to ‘Apollo and peacocks’ jars, below the contents label in the centre is an angel’s head, above a pair of wings. Similarly the bottom of the contents label is also decorated with swags and tassels.

This display jar has a Chinese style design, including a peacock, on reverse.

The inscription on this jar ‘E:DIASCORDIVM’ refers to
Electuarium Diascordium, Electuary of scordium.
This preparation was formerly regarded as a remedy of great importance, and was chiefly used for the plague. The original formula, which was included in the London Pharmacopoeia of 1618, contained I7 ingredients.

The jar was manufactured in London, around
1690-1720.

Fact

Although large display jars are similar in shape to a dry drug jar, we do not believe that they were used practically. Many were produced simply to look impressive displayed in apothecary shops. Even the back of the jars are beautifully decorated, inspired by Chinese designs.