Syr d Polipod. romy

18th century

This syrup jar has a straight spout, an applied strap handle and a circular foot. It is decorated with two bands of light blue leaves and vines at the upper and lower shoulders. It has two labels; one is gothic script across the center of the jar, the second has been applied in the cold painting technique at the back of the jar below the handle, indicating that the jar was used for more than one medicinal. The first label is marked <i>Syr. D Polipod</i>. Estes notes that root of polypod fern purges melancholy humors, and is also an astringent. The second label reads <i>Syr. Violar</i> or Violet Syrup. It was a gentle cathartic suitable for children.