Italian maiolica apothecary jar, attributed to Faenza, late 16th century

Large late 16th-century Italian maiolica apothecary jar, attributed to Faenza.

The squat, oval-shaped body rests on a profiled foot and terminates in a short neck with a wide, flared rim. On the whitish tin glaze, a predominantly cobalt-blue painting unfolds with vigorous vegetal scrolls, stylized flowers, and curved leaf motifs.

The front is dominated by a cross executed in ochre and brown on a stylized rocky mound. The Golgotha motif forms a striking sacred accent within the otherwise ornamentally structured decoration. Several encircling blue lines structure the shoulder, body, and foot.

The design stands in the tradition of Italian Renaissance apothecary ceramics. Comparable maiolica vessels were produced in the 16th century in significant ceramic centers such as Faenza for pharmaceutical use.

On the base is an older collection label marked "Faenza 1600".

Object type:
Apothecary jar / storage jar

Period / Dating:
Late 16th century / c. 1600

Origin / Attribution:
Italy, attributed to Faenza

Style:
Renaissance

Material:
Tin-glazed earthenware

Decorative painting / Technique:
Cobalt-blue painting with ochre and manganese accents on white tin glaze

Decor:
Vegetal scroll and floral ornamentation with Golgotha cross

Manufacturer / Workshop:
Not determined

Signature / Mark:
No maker's mark discernible; older label on base "Faenza 1600"

Condition:
Condition commensurate with age, with glaze losses, chips, abrasion, discolorations, and craquelure

Dimensions:
18 x 12.5cm

Condition: Due to age and use, with significant glaze abrasion and losses, particularly on the base, minor chips to the rim, discolorations, signs of wear, and partial craquelé. The preserved condition corresponds to the vessel’s great age and is documented in the product images.