This distiller uses the same principles of alchemy developed 1,100 years ago by Alkindus, renowned as the "father of perfume distillation." The still has a copper frame and a cucurbit, condensing pot, and a cooling cup made from borosilicate glass--the same glass used in laboratory beakers for its durability and heat resistance. The cucurbit holds the liquid to be distilled and is heated by the oil lamp. As the liquid boils, oil vapor is produced and moves from the cucurbit through the swan-neck tube and, once it reaches the water-filled condensing pot, it is cooled and converted into a concentrated distillate. The distiller is mounted on a walnut base and its frame is made from five copper plates secured in place with copper rivets. Imported from Spain, the distiller is embossed with "Missisipi Destil," an homage to the distilling history of the American South. 11" H x 10" W x 7" D. (4 1/4 lbs.)