U Defensivo

ca 1500

This squat albarello jar has a wide mouth and foot. The jar has a white glaze and is decorated with a blue stylized floral motif with a cross–hatch border just above the shoulder and the foot. The center of the jar bears the text <i>U Defensivo</i> in gothic font. The jar would have contained Unguentum Defensivum, or a defensive ointment. The ointment was composed of the plant Dragon’s blood (the red resin from several different types of trees), Armenian bole, rose oil, vinegar, and wax. The ointment was used to treat skin lesions and wounds.