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A raw material as status symbol, used in barter transactions and an important commodity in world trade.

In 1372, two fattened oxen were reportedly swapped for 1 kg of sugar. Sugar was so valuable that it was even weighed in gold. It was not just a medicinal or luxury item. It was also a status symbol, since only the nobility and wealthy citizens were able to afford it for centuries. At the end of the Middle Ages, sugar was valued about ten times higher than honey.

The precious substance was kept in special containers. Most sugar bowls or boxes were elegantly designed – even with gold or silver plating – with a lock or padlock to protect the sweet content from “long fingers”. Today, beautiful and well preserved pieces command high prices among antique dealers.