French Antiques

Set of Eight 19th Century Parisian Porcelain Apothecary Jars & Covers

An attractive and evocative set of eight 19th-century Parisian porcelain chemist or apothecary jars, each of cylindrical form with a removable domed cover surmounted by a pointed finial.

The jars are finely decorated in white glazed porcelain with gilt borders and detailing, each bearing a shield-shaped reserve inscribed in black with abbreviated pharmaceutical preparations in Latin. The inscriptions include Cons: Melissæ, Cons: Helenii, Pil: Rufi, Elect: de Citro and Ext: Hellebori, reflecting their original use for the storage of medicinal compounds and preparations in a pharmacy or dispensary.

The restrained neoclassical decoration, elegant typography and repeated gilt bands give the group a particularly handsome and unified appearance. A surviving red Parisian porcelain mark to the underside provides further evidence of their French manufacture or decoration.

.The set remains highly decorative but shows faults, chips, losses, rubbing and wear commensurate with age and its original utilitarian use. There are losses and wear to the gilding, including to some of the finials and borders, together with chips and losses to some covers. Minor surface and manufacturing imperfections are also present. These signs of use are consistent with the jars’ considerable age and history as working pharmaceutical vessels. Please refer to photographs for individual condition.

Price

£1,100

Reference number

22168

Origin

19th Century Paris, France Circa 1860

Measurements

Height: 28cm (11.0 inches)
Diameter: 11.5cm (4.5 inches)
19.5cm high (without lids)

Fine Late 19th Century French Double Sided Desk in Burr Amboyna

£2,950

Fine 19th Century French Mahogany Commode in the Louis XVI Taste

£2,400

Pair of Early 20th Century French Painted Fauteuils in the Louis XVI Taste

£1,950

Late 19th / Early 20th Century French Tulipwood & Inlay Bouillote Table

£1,500

18th Century French Louis XVI Walnut and Marquetry Commode

£3,500

Early 19th Century French Tole Chandelier in the Original Painted Decoration

£1,200

Can't find what you're looking for?

We may be able to help...

Through our wide-ranging connections, we’re usually able to source unusual or specific pieces to a brief. Get in touch and we’ll begin a search.

Make an enquiry