October 31, 2016
These two majolica albarello (storage jars used in apothecaries) are similar in size, shape, and design. The inscriptions tell us what pharmaceutical substances they would have held (possibly a laxative and a saline solution). The jar with the dark blue background features a religious symbol, depicting two arms in front of a cross, in a yellow-brown glaze, while the jar with the white background contains only floral patterns.
These two jars and many more can be viewed on our digital collections website or in-person by appointment. To see only the majolica with religious imagery, you can choose the subject heading christian art and symbolism. to narrow your search.
Light blue majolica albarello jar, with darker blue floral decoration, and a religious symbol and inscription “el lenitive” in yellow-brown.
Venice, Italy, circa 1600
Carofano Collection # 017
White majolica albarello jar, with the inscription “ung saline” between two rows of blue daisy and fern decorations.
Italy, circa 1700
Carofano Collection # 029
Related News
A Story Grows in Rural Uganda
Valeda F. Dent, Ph.D. Dean, University Librarian, and Professor, University Libraries My colleague and husband Geoff Goodman, Ph.D. , and I have been collaborating on research projects in rural Uganda...
Poster Exhibit Spotlights the US Home Front during World War II
Graduate students in St. John’s University’s Master of Arts programs in Museum Administration and Public History brought to vivid life the US propaganda effort during World War II with an exhibit featuring authentic posters held in the University Libraries’ Special Collections.
St. John's Welcomes 42 New Faculty Members
With the new academic year officially starting on Wednesday, September 5, we are happy to welcome 42 new faculty members to St. John's University.