Earthenware retort, Europe, 1801-1900
Retorts have long been standard pieces of laboratory equipment. They are used during chemical experiments and large-scale processes such as distillation. Normally made of glass, this example is made from earthenware and is a typical shape, with a long stem and a large bowl. Reagents are placed in the bowl and heated from underneath. The retort is shown with a similar example (A634351).
Object number:
A634003
Related Themes and Topics
Glossary:
Glossary: retort
A vessel in which chemical substances are heated for distillation or decomposition. Usually made from glass.
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.