An important glazed ceramic FOUNTAIN JAR from the Naples region dated 1773, inscribed "Aqua distillata Capocephali" with a foliate and floral cartouche comprising two lions facing each other holding a vase in bloom surmounted by three stars and the letter V. Two large foliate handles. H. 44 x W. 32 cm. (Damage and missing parts, notably to the handles and neck. Cracks and chips) Note: Capocephalo is thought to be the name of a famous Neapolitan doctor born in 1667 who invented this preparation. According to an 18th century manuscript of "Matière Médicale", this preparation included a species of snake closely related to "Coluber Natrix", the Common Garter Snake. "This remedy is reputed to have purifying properties. It was used in cases of "cachexia, consumption, persistent thinness in children, and skin eruptions". Doctor Capocephalo is thought to have invented this "remedy".