Ung: Basilicon

18th century

This baluster–shaped drug jar has a white background with two continuous rings of blue, orange, and yellow stylized flowers encircling the container at the top and bottom. The foot has a scalloped rim and a vine of tiny flowers and leaves. The lid is flat and round, with an applied vine and red fruit handle. The waist of the jar bears the text “Ung Basilicon.” Unguentum basilicon, or basilicon ointment, was also known as “sovereign ointment.” The ointment had a few different recipes, but generally consisted of yellow wax, refined fat, resin, and olive oil. The ointment was used as a vulnerary ointment to remove corrupted blood from wounds, and as an emollient.