English & European Ceramics & Glass - 15th December 2020
Lot 120
An Italian maiolica apothecary bottle 18th century
Estimate £250 - £350 | Hammer £250
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Description
An Italian maiolica apothecary bottle 18th century, the generous rounded body inscribed 'Aqua Mellisse' on a banner between bands of scrolling foliage, and a small Sicilian maiolica bombola, probably 19th century, painted with bright scrolled leaves, some chipping, 24cm max. (2)
Aqua Mellisse may relate to Aqua Melissa (a medicinal balm water) or more likely to Aqua Mellis - a non-medicinal perfumed water containing honey, which was sometimes referred to as the King's Honey Water.