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ITALY, Venezia (Venice). 17th century. PB Theriac capsule lid (24mm, 10.63 g). Produced by the All’Ultimà pharmacopia of Venice. (wheel) THERIACA FINA IN VENEZIA, female figure standing facing / Blank. U. Klein. “Von Paradies zu Paradies: Theriak und Theriak-Kapseln,” SM 218 (June 2005), p. 40. VF.
Ex Classical Numismatic Group 33 (15 March 1995), lot 1907.
Theriaca (also known as ‘Venice triacle’) was an ancient medicinal compound – employed as a traditional medicine since the time of Mithridates VI of Pontus – used as an antidote against poisonous bites. Nero’s physician Andromachus, as well as the medical author Galen, discussed its medicinal value. Containing dozens of ingredients, including viper flesh, opium, cinnamon, agarics, and gum arabic, it was mixed with honey and wine to complete the compounding process. During the Middle Ages, theriac became a valuable article of commerce, with Venice, Padua, Milan, Genoa, Bologna, Constantinople, and Cairo all competing in its trade. Venice regulated the production and trade of theriac beginning in 1258, and by the 15th century controlled its distribution throughout Europe. About 40 pharmacy shops in Venice were officially allowed to produce and sell theriac.
Closing Date and Time: 20 July 2022 at 13:28:00 ET.
All winning bids are subject to an 18% buyer’s fee.
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