Italian Blue and White Albarello Jar

A fine Italian maiolica albarello (apothecary jar), of waisted cylindrical form with everted rim, decorated in blue on a white tin-glazed ground. The central field bears a stylised heart-shaped device with stars above and the inscription “GLO: SEPO”, framed within a rectangular cartouche. Below are scrolling foliate and strapwork panels, bordered by wave-like ornament around the base.
Originally used in apothecaries and monastic infirmaries to store dried herbs, spices, or medicinal compounds, the albarello form developed in Persia before becoming a hallmark of Italian Renaissance and Baroque pharmacy wares. The script and decorative schema suggest production in central Italy, likely Faenza or Deruta, c. 1620–1680.