Storage vase for Green Tea, Italy, 1750-1770
The inscription Thé Verde painted on to the side of this earthenware jar means “Green Tea”. Originating in China, green tea has long been considered a health drink. It was used to treat a number of ailments by cleansing the body and was also drunk to improve general well-being. Tea was a safer alternative to water, which could taste unpleasant and was often contaminated, carrying water-borne diseases such as cholera.
Object number:
A631999
Related Themes and Topics
Glossary:
Glossary: storage jar
A jar used to store objects or substances.
Glossary: cholera
A severe infection of the small intestine commonly contracted through eating or drinking contaminated food or water. Causes severe vomiting and diarrhoea, leading to dehydration, which can be fatal.
Glossary: pharmacy
The preparation and medicinal dispensing of drugs.
Glossary: earthenware
Pottery made of clay which is fired at a relatively low temperature. Earthenware is often semi-porous, meaning some liquid or air can pass through it. This can be altered by treating the pottery with a glaze.