Spice jar
Category
Ceramics
Date
1600 - 1700
Materials
Ceramic
Measurements
120 mm (Height) x 75 mm (Depth)
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Woolsthorpe Manor, Lincolnshire
NT 427335
Caption
The popularity of spices had increased during the Renaissance as the trade routes opened. As rising gentry the Newtons would have been keen to experiment with new flavours and therefore the tin glazed earthenware jar is part of a collection of different spices and herbs. The inscription S: Conf:Hiacint on the jar translates as Confection of Hyacinth. Hyacinth and crocus are closely related - the stigmas which are made up of the filament stalk and the pollen head are saffron. The word ‘conf’ probably means a confection prepared as a sweet tasting base and used as a diuretic purgative, also used to treat jaundice.
Summary
A 17th century tin-glazed earthenware spice jar with waisted base and neck and a lip dry edge. Decorated in blue cartouche, crudely baroque with strap work, swags of flowers - two peacocks above, cherub below enclosing script 'S:CONF:HIACINI'.
Marks and inscriptions
S:CONF:HIACINI