National Museum of American History
PLIRY ARCOTICO
ca 1700
The lower shoulder of the jar bears the inscription <i>PLIRY ARCOTICO</i>. The jar would have contained Pleres Arconticum Electuarium, an electuary made from pearls. Electuaries are a blend of various herbs, water, honey and sugar which form a paste. This particular substance was made from pearls, red coral, musk, aloe, cinnamon, cloves, nutmeg, and roses, and was used as a tonic and remedy for depression.
🔒
Order museum-quality prints
Sign in to order prints, canvas, and more of this work. Browsing and full-resolution downloads stay free.