A Delft apothecary or tobacco jar, 2nd half 18th century, the ovoid form painted in blue with an

A Delft apothecary or tobacco jar, 2nd half 18th century, the ovoid form painted in blue with an elaborate cartouche surmounted by a vase of flowers, inscribed 'Tonca', blue B:P mark, a French faïence drug jar of cylindrical form, inscribed 'Bals Nervin' between leaf scrolls, and a later lead-glazed earthenware salt jar, 26.5cm max. (3)

Tonka beans are now a banned substance in many countries, but had a variety of occult and more mundane uses. Some believed that desires could be fulfilled by carrying around a bean until the wish came true and then burying or stamping on it.