Syr: ex Flor: Persic:

18th century

This blue and white glazed tureen has two handles, each in the shape of a lion's head. Also present are horizontal bands of cobalt blue geometric and flora decorations. The rest of the container is covered with elongated leaves and flowers, dogs, birds, rabbits, and swans. The band in the middle of the body is marked <i>Syr: ex Flor: Persic:</i> The bottom of the foot is marked with an image of a lighthouse. Lighthouses were used to mark the wares of 17th and 18th century Genoese potters. Syrup of Persicus includes flowers, leaves, and seeds from the peach tree. It is used as a cathartic, sedative, and anthelmentic (a means to expel worms from the body).