Pharmacy - Potions and Porcelain 1914 - Side by Side

by Mike Savad

Title

Pharmacy - Potions and Porcelain 1914 - Side by Side

Artist

Mike Savad

Medium

Photograph - Colorized Photo

Description

Hand colored photo from 1914
Original title: National exhibition in Bern
Photographer: Unbekannt
Location: Schutzenmatt park, Bern, Switzerland

In the apothecaries of old, the jars lining their shelves were more than mere container, they were symbols of the art and science of healing. These jars, often made from porcelain, glass, or ceramic, were exquisitely crafted, boasting ornate designs, intricate labels, and gilded accents. The level of detail reflected the apothecary's reputation and the perceived quality of the remedies inside.

Many of these jars featured elaborate decorations, with hand-painted scenes, floral patterns, and even coats of arms. The names of the contents, often in Latin, were carefully inscribed in flowing script, adding an air of mystery and authority. Some jars were so fancy they resembled pieces of art, with bright colors and golden embellishments that made them stand out in candlelit rooms.

The fanciness served a dual purpose: it elevated the apothecary's status, demonstrating knowledge and wealth, while also reassuring customers of the purity and effectiveness of the medicines stored within. A well-decorated jar suggested that the contents were precious, worthy of care and attention, much like the ailments they were designed to cure. This tradition of beautiful, elaborate jars underscored the delicate balance between medicine as a science and an art form.

Coloring notes: This was a part of an exhibition in Bern, Switzerland, so I don't think this was ever a real pharmacy, but it does explain why there are so many jars that don't match.

Uploaded

September 17th, 2024

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