Dispensing pot, Europe, 1750-1840
Dispensing pots were used to hold ointments, pills and medical treatments, although they could also be used for other materials such as cosmetics. A pharmacist or apothecary would make up a medicine and put it in a pot for the customer to take away. The contents were usually protected by a paper cover secured with string. The pot has a blue tinted glaze and the words “BALS: DR: THORETON” are painted on the side. “BALS” is likely to be short for “balsam”, a soothing medical treatment. “DR: THORETON” was almost certainly the pharmacist.
Object number:
A42934
Related Themes and Topics
Glossary:
Glossary: dispensing pot
pot used to contain ointments, medications, perfumes
Glossary: pharmacy
The preparation and medicinal dispensing of drugs.