[Sca-cooks] Period Gourds

[Terry Decker]

Rather than the Chinese Bottle Gourd, I would suggest the Cucuzzi or White 
Flower Gourd.

http://onaleeseeds.scifstore.com/module/store/viewentry/8138/

The shapesof gourds I have seen pictured in period sources are dippers, 
cylindricals, and basket (bushel).  The following site provides some 
pictures (not as good as I would like, but useable).

http://www.gourdfarmer.com/


For a little artistic look at some of the gourds, try this site discussing 
the botanical bounty of Caravagio.  The illustrations are not all by 
Caravagio, but the painters are identified in the text.

http://www.hort.purdue.edu/newcrop/caravaggio/caravaggio_l.html

A little more help identifying gourds and squashes:

http://pubs.caes.uga.edu/caespubs/pubcd/B1180.htm

Bear

>
> We have in the past discussed what the actual period gourds that would
> have been used in the recipies for gourds and their lack of
> availablity.
>
> I am uncertain whether the conclusion was reached on this list or
> elsewhere - but I believe that the gourd that would have been used is
> commonly known as the Chinese Bottle Gourd.
>
> Many have lamented it's lack of availability here in the US, so I
> thought I would post my finding  here. Apparantly it is relatively
> easy to grow! I found a source for seeds in my garden planning and if
> anyone else might desire to grow them here is the link:
>
> http://www.evergreenseeds.com/evergreenseeds/calgouropo.html
>
> Glad Tidings,
> Serena da Riva