U di Calce

ca 1500

This blue monochrome albarello is decorated with cobalt blue vines and leaves. The escroll in the center of the container is inscribed with gothic script that reads <i>U di calce.</i> The jar would have contained unguentum di calce, or ointment of chalk. The ointment, made of chalk, wax, and oil of roses was used as a salve on burns.