Albarello 1540 - 1550

This Albarello, made by Masséot Abaquesne, is an earthenware ceramic jar with painted decoration. The form itself speaks to a history of making. It’s thrown on a wheel, then carefully painted with a portrait medallion framed by stylized foliage. This technique, known as maiolica, involved coating the earthenware in a tin-based glaze, which provided an opaque white surface for the painted decoration. The process required great skill, because the pigments had to be applied before firing, with no room for error. The lustrous effect, typical of maiolica, results from the alchemy of the kiln. Albarello jars like this weren't just beautiful; they were functional. Used in pharmacies to store herbs and medicines, they represent a fascinating intersection of craft, science, and commerce. The decoration elevated a humble storage jar to an object of beauty, reflecting the values of the Renaissance. We see here how attention to materials, making, and social context enriches our understanding and appreciation.