Roma Numismatics Ltd
E-Sale 52 10 Jan 2019
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Italy, Venice PB Theriac Capsule Seal. Circa 17th century. Produced by the Alla testa d'oro pharmacy. TERIAC[A] FINA AL DO IN VEN[EZI]A(sic), laureate and draped bust right; small winged lion to right / Blank. For similar, cf. U. Klein. "Von Paradies zu Paradies: Theriak und Theriak-Kapseln," SM 218 (June 2005), pp. 35-42; cf. CNG e225, 661. 19.40g, 38mm.
Very Fine.
Theriac, described by Klein as a 'wonder drug', was an all purpose medicinal product originating as far back as the Hellenistic period. The centre for sale of this product was Venice, from where it was exported all over the world. Its composition, made up of opium, spices and snake flesh, amongst other ingredients, was a closely guarded secret, making it all the more desirable. The capsule seals, made exclusively of lead or lead alloy, indicated to the buyer, with the stamp of the pharmacy, the authentic nature of the product and to prevent inferior imitations.
Very Fine.
Theriac, described by Klein as a 'wonder drug', was an all purpose medicinal product originating as far back as the Hellenistic period. The centre for sale of this product was Venice, from where it was exported all over the world. Its composition, made up of opium, spices and snake flesh, amongst other ingredients, was a closely guarded secret, making it all the more desirable. The capsule seals, made exclusively of lead or lead alloy, indicated to the buyer, with the stamp of the pharmacy, the authentic nature of the product and to prevent inferior imitations.