The Lost Code

Apothecary Pots

Glazed earthenware
H. 33 cm
These pots used by apothecaries (an old name for pharmacists) recall the medical profession of Jean Mauvide (1701–1782). One contained valerian (a plant known for its soothing effects), the second contained papaver (the scientific name for the poppy, from which opium was made to aid sleeping), and the third contained ipecacuanha (a plant used to induce vomiting in the event of poisoning). These objects are reproductions.
Manoir Mauvide-Genest collection