Two-handled amphora, ceramic pharmacy jar, majolica. Arms of the Grand Master Ramon Perellos Roccaful on the front. Inscription 1714 on other side.

The vase n. 3513 is one of the most important handworks in the Museum of the Order of St John. This amphora is on display in the gallery.

The importance of this vase is both in the value of the decoration and in the quality of the materials used. It was made in one of the most specialized workshops on 18th century, and it is one of the last rare examples of this high-quality production.

This majolica pharmacy jar was made in Caltagirone in 1714 and was part of a medical equipment used by the Order hospital in Malta. The front of the body shows the crowned coat of arms of Ramon Perellos Roccaful, Grand Master of the Order between 1697-1720.

This emblem is surrounded by an elaborate decorative motif in blue, green, yellow and manganese. The same design of stylised scroll floral and volutes, with blue berries, covers all the front of jar.

On the back there is the inscription 1714 in a stylised blue garland.

The amphora has high neck with circular aperture and thick rim, sloping neck and slightly enlarged circular base. Two twisted arched handles are attached at the neck and the body. The joints between handles and body are flattened.

Two wavy yellow lines, flanked by three pairs of horizontal blue lines, decorate the neck on the front only. The same wavy line, flanked by two pairs of horizontal blue lines, decorates the bottom of the front.

Other amphorae made in Caltagirone show the same style and design.

The amphora was purchased by Trollope and Sons in 1938.

 

Alberto Filippo Rapisarda