Technical Description
An exceedingly early and rare example of an English apothecary medicine bottle, made as early as the 1550s or even earlier. Free-blown from dark aqua glass, the tall conical basal push-up, sloping shoulders and flared lip testify to an early provenance.
Glassmaking in the British Isles may have taken place during Roman times. It was certainly established in the weald of Kent by the 14th century, initiated by continental European glassmakers who brought with them a store of useful knowledge, ideas, and designs. Amongst this variety was the common small vial used for medicinal and other utilitarian purposes.
These early vials and small bottles are extremely rare and known mainly through fragmented remains. Remarkable condition in comparison to its known counterpart examples, one of which can be found as the earliest example of an English apothecary bottle in the late David W. Barker's private collection, an esteemed and knowledgeable collector since the 1970s.
Date & Origin
England, c1550. Period of Henry VIII (R.1509-1547), Edward VI (R.1547-1553).
Condition
Great condition when considering that this type is typically excavated in fragments. Age-related weathering and pitting throughout, some iridescent residue to the interior. One 2mm chip to the lip rim and one restored chip to the opposing side of the lip rim as shown.
Dimensions
Height: 6.7cm Diameter: 3.5cm
Provenance
Property of a private collector, Edinburgh (1938-2021).
Further Reading
https://www.glassencyclopedia.com/bottles.html
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