Albarello drug jar for Soap Plaster, Italy, 1701-1800
The abbreviated inscription on the jar describes its original contents. The full Latin name Empiastro Diasapone translates into English as “Soap Plaster” or “Soap Poultice”. This refers to a hot poultice which was used to counter pain caused by gout. It was made from 2 lb (0.9 kg) of olive oil, 1 lb (0.45 kg) of red lead (now known to be highly toxic) and 1/2 lb (0.2 kg) of soap boiled into a soft mass. The soap was then applied externally to the body.
Object number:
A632035
Related Themes and Topics
Glossary:
Glossary: drug jar
A (usually earthenware) container designed to hold apothecaries' ointments and dry drugs.
Glossary: pharmacy
The preparation and medicinal dispensing of drugs.
Glossary: gout
A disease with painful inflammation of the joints caused by deposits of uric acid salts. It results in acute arthritis and chronic destruction of the joints.
Glossary: poultice
A soft moist mass that is spread on cloth and applied over the skin to treat an aching or inflamed part of the body.