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An English delftware apothecary syrup jar, circa 1740 image 1
An English delftware apothecary syrup jar, circa 1740 image 2
Hutton Collection
Lot 108

An English delftware apothecary syrup jar, circa 1740

19 November 2025, 10:30 GMT
London, Knightsbridge

£1,000 - £1,500

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An English delftware apothecary syrup jar, circa 1740

Of globular form with a spreading foot, painted in blue with a cherub, shell and angel head label inscribed 'S:KERMES', a simple spout to the reverse, 19cm high

Footnotes

Provenance
Hutton Collection

Syrupus Kermes was widely praised for its purported medicinal powers, thought to be especially valuable for strengthening the heart and credited with saving lives in dramatic circumstances. While taking the appearance of a small berry, kermes is actually a parasitic insect that feeds on the Mediterranean oak, long treasured for its vibrant red colour.

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