[1739] This was probably lead ore in its primary state, when only separated from the stannum, and before it was subjected to fusion for the purpose of obtaining pure lead.—See Beckmann’s Hist. Inv. Vol. II. p. 211. Bohn’s Edition. Ajasson identifies it with litharge, or fused oxide of lead, known as gold and silver litharge, from its colour.
[1740] See B. xxxiii. c. [31], and Chapter [47] of this Book.—B.
[1741] In Cilicia: see B. v. c. 22. He is speaking, no doubt, of the “metallic,” or artificial kind.
[1742] A kind of ointment. See B. xxiii. c. 81, and B. xxxiii. c. [35].
[1743] Our Litharge. See B. xxxiii. c. [35].
[1744] According to Ajasson, this substance is properly a sub-carbonate of lead, commonly called white lead.—B.
[1745] Scoria of lead and molybdæna.—B.
[1746] Preparations of lead are still used in cosmetics for whitening the complexion.
[1747] The Realgar of the moderns, red orpiment, or red sulphuret of arsenic. Pliny has in numerous places spoken of it as a remedy for certain morbid states both of animals and vegetables, B. xvii. c. 47, B. xxiii. c. 13, B. xxv. c. 22, and B. xxviii. c. 62, but he has not previously given any account of its origin and composition.—B.
[1748] Dioscorides, B. v. c. 122, informs us, with respect to this effect of sandarach, that it was burned in combination with resin, and that the smoke was inhaled through a tube.—B.