A late 18th early 19th C Italian maiolica apothecary jar with a crest showing the arms of the Two-Sicilies noble house of Gaeta, counts of Sant'Angelo Limosano. See link to heraldic sites here and here. The lid is inscribed "Aethiopis Mineralis" which is the black sulphide of mercury, obtained by titrating mercury with sulphur. 'Aethiopic' usually meaning 'black'. Mercury was considered by alchemists to be the 'First Matter' from which all metals could be formed. It is name of the Roman messenger of the gods who is linked with the medical profession in the sign of Caduceus. Known to be toxic since the 1600s it has variably been prescribed for constipation, depression, child-bearing and toothaches. With thanks and credit for research to Stephen Plowman and Joseph McMillan (heraldry) and to Adam Mclean (alchemy). High 230 mm Wide 110 mm.