ELIX PPT

17th-18th century

This blown and molded square–shaped bottle has a baked enamel white oval cartouche which is outlined with blue vines, red and yellow flowers and a three pointed crown. The cartouche is marked <i>ELIX PPT</i>. The Roman numeral "VIII" is etched into the jar’s shoulder. ELIX PPT likely stood for Elixir Proprietatis, or Paracelsus’ Elixir. This elixir was composed of saffron, aloe, and myrrh, and was used as a stimulant, stomachic, and cathartic. Paracelsus touted it as a concoction to continue health and long life.