Apothecary Jar / Bote de farmacia 1700-1800, Sevilla, Spain International Folk Art Foundation, Santa Fe Photo by Paul Smutko

The typical Spanish apothecary jar derives its shape from the Muslim world. The apothecaries and hospitals established in Spain following the great plague of the 14th century were based on Arab pharmacies. The shape of the jars is said to be based on the bamboo sections in which Arab pharmaceutics were shipped. Typically they were covered with a piece of cloth or parchment.

Apothecary jars in Spain often had the name permanently marked on the vessel. Those in Mexico may have had a label pasted on the jar or covering. Herbs, medicinal plants, as well as spices, candied fruits, and scented honeys were typically stored in these jars, which were narrow at the waist for easy removal from pharmacy shelves. Pharmacies were often attached to royal courts, monastic houses and hospitals; therefore, the jars might also bear the insignia of a particular institution.