A quiet white imbued with the "trace of work"
A genuine antique tool once held by a pharmacist
Product Description:
This white ceramic cup is a beaker-shaped ceramic container used in European pharmacies from the 19th to early 20th century for mixing small amounts of medicines and ointments, and measuring liquids. It was widely used at the time as a sturdy and stable pharmacy ceramic that was resistant to breakage. The rim has a small chip, and the sides have unevenness from glaze irregularities and blisters, leaving behind a charming character unique to everyday tools. The rounded rim is gentle on the hands, and it can still be used today as a small item holder, pen stand, or display container. When displayed alongside medicine bottles and old measuring instruments, it instantly evokes the atmosphere of an antique pharmacy (apothecary). (R070137)
Specifications:
・Material: Ceramic (white glaze)
・Period: 19th to early 20th century
・Origin: Europe (found at a flea market)
・Size: Height approx. 6.5cm / Rim diameter approx. 6cm / Base diameter approx. 5.5cm
・Condition: Chip on rim, scuffs on side, glaze irregularities, pinholes, wear on bottom
*Please understand that these are conditions inherent to antiques.
Recommended Uses:
Ideal for display or practical use in cafes, restaurants, bars, pharmacies, beauty salons, general stores, kitchenware stores, hotel lobbies, galleries, etc. Can be used as a pen stand, cutlery holder, single flower vase, or small item holder, adding historical charm and practical beauty of European pharmacy culture to any space.
Key Features:
・Practical feel and rustic atmosphere unique to pharmacy antiques
・Versatile for flower vases, desk accessories, kitchen tool holders, etc., due to its simple and unassuming nature
・Combine with a mortar dish or glass medicine bottles for a complete apothecary display
・The beautiful aging of the white ceramic makes it popular as a photographic prop
・Affordable price, recommended for antique beginners
Special Note:
During the Meiji period, when imported pharmacy systems were introduced to Japan, European-style compounding tools (mortars, ointment dishes, and ceramic beakers*) began to be widely used. These small white porcelain cups were used for purposes such as kneading ointments (creams), mixing powdered medicines, measuring small amounts of liquid, dissolving ingredients for pills, and dispensing external medicines. Especially until the early Showa period, they were mass-produced in Seto (Seto City, Aichi Prefecture) and used in pharmacies nationwide.
*Based on AI research.
