Charles Hahn M.D. Collection of Apothecary Jars

There are over 25 species of mints, so it is difficult to determine which this jar would have held. Medicinal interest in mints dates from the first century A.D. They are generally used in digestion, to relieve stomach and intestinal gas.

This jar, imported from West Germany, is typical of the classic German apothecary jar: simple, generally with only floral or geometric lines. Majolica vessels were used much later in Germany than in Italy. There is evidence of the establishment of German pharmacies in the 15th century, and many German factories produced apothecary jars in stoneware.