Apothecary Jar: G GUAIAC

17th-18th century

This jar is marked, <i>G GUAIAC</i> below the alchemical symbol for powder. This jar would have contained powdered guiac, the resin or wood of lignum vitae tree. Guiac was used as diuretic, cathartic, and diaphoretic, and was especially effective in treating syphilis. The jar has a wide mouth, flattened collar, and an applied round foot. The container is decorated with a baked enamel white cartouche and is framed by blue stylized vines topped by a yellow crown.