Storage jar (albarello) depicting a dog

Unknown

ca. 1470–1500 · Maiolica (tin-glazed earthenware) · European Sculpture and Decorative Arts

Not all inscriptions appearing on maiolica storage vessels specify their contents. In this case, the words are a warning: "Laga me stare e no me tocare" (Let me be and do not touch me). Although unambiguous in sentiment, the statement is rather mysterious without its original context. It may refer to the angry-looking dog on the exterior of the jar, or possibly to poisonous materials contained within.

Artist

Unknown

Date

ca. 1470–1500

Medium

Maiolica (tin-glazed earthenware)

Culture

Italian, possibly Pesaro

Department

European Sculpture and Decorative Arts

Credit line

Fletcher Fund, 1946