Catalog: Antiques: Instruments and Implements (101)

Measuring 4 inches long by 4.50 inches high by 3 inches deep, this fabulous, circa 1830's, English, porcelain, quill holder features a young, aristocratic lady surrounded by mounds of flowers and playing a lute.

Possibly Staffordshire, the quill holder features polychrome coloration with gold embellishment. Condition is wonderful with no chips, breaks, repairs, or repaints. Some discoloration seen under the base in the area where the quill hole is located. This discoloration may well be due to ink drips from quill or pen landing on the porcelain over many, many years.

A delightful piece!

This rare and unusual, finely constructed, Civil War Era, portable Field Surgeon's Operating or Gleason type Mortuary Table (also known as a Cooling Table) comes from the estate of a 4th generation New England medical doctor, and retains its original finish with wonderful patina.

The decorative and delicate detailing of this piece is at odds with its most gruesome history! Scalloped copper edge guards and the appealing pattern in which the drainage holes in the laminated wood tabletop were laid out contribute to visual appeal. The softwood table frame stands on nicely turned hardwood legs.

When opened and extended to its maximum dimensions, the table measures 72" long X 18.5" wide X 22" high. To facilitate ease of traveling, this portable table slides and folds to 40" long X 18.5" wide X 4" high. A leather carrying handle is attached to the table edge; legs, when folded, are secured in place with hooks.

Very fine original condition: expected overall wear (patina) with one hook missing and minor unobtrusive loss of laminate along lower table top edge measuring approximately 1/3” wide by 7”.

Offered is very visually appealing Veterinary Medicine Horse Cure Advertising Bag with wonderful graphics from the late 1800s. A very detailed and boldly executed image of an early American farmer with his sick horse brings to focus the unconditional need for this cure!

As noted on the bag, THE GIPSY COMPOUND CONDITION POWDERS were an all-purpose CURE invented by C.H. PROCTOR, of 13 Brown Street, Marlboro, Massachusetts. While the marketing description was specific to horses, the powders were additionally advertised as suitable for use with cattle, poultry, and swine as well! Truly an all-encompassing cure-all!

The paper bag has rich toning commensurate with its 120+ years of age and is in fine condition. Please note that the 3rd photo best demonstrates the actual color and toning. This bag is "new old stock" and was never unused. Measuring 15 inches high x 10 inches wide, this vintage piece would look absolutely phenomenal framed!

Offered is a very difficult-to-find and highly decorative group of six, matching, 19th century, iron, apothecary cabinet drawer pulls featuring stunning labels under glass!

Each wonderfully appealing drawer pull exemplifies the high style era of Victoriana design predominating the second half of the 1800's. Each pull measures about 4.7/8"W x 2 3/8"H x 7/8"D. The labels are reverse painted on glass, all-original and sport a lovely patina.

The condition of the pulls is very good with the exception of only one pull, VIBURN..., showing minor glass damage (see photo). Otherwise, some pulls have very minor paint loss, very faint superficial rust, and may need a slight cleaning of the glass, qualities which are consistent with 140+ year old antiques of the period that experienced consistent use.

Make no mistake, this matching set of stunningly-designed, label-under-glass style apothecary cabinet drawer pulls are a rare find in today's antiques market!

Offered is a wonderfully hand-crafted, 19th century SMOOTHING PLANE.

This lovely example has a subtle, coffin-shape form and sports a dovetailed base that was expertly joined. This handsome tool measures 7.25 inches long and retains its original, aged, brownish patina. The owner's initials, "N.S", are stamped on the heel of this plane.

The condition is commensurate with a mildly-used, antique hand tool. There are the expected unobtrusive small dings, scratches and imperfections typically seen in vintage tools. The blade is sharp, well maintained and has a "BUCK BROTHERS" stamp imprinted upon it. The wedge and blade fit perfectly.

A smoothing plane is typically the last plane used in woodcraft, and when skillfully employed, it offers a finish superior to that of fine sandpaper!

Offered is a delightful trio of 19th century, Horn, Apothecary Pharmacy Powder or Tablet Scoops. These tools of the trade were made in three different sizes ranging from nearly 5 inches long to 5.75 inches long.

These interesting pharmacy implements have a warm honey translucent tone and are complemented by a natural brownish color which is especially noted in the largest scoop. They were most likely made from cow horn as was typical of the period. Depending upon their size, a scoop, such as these, was capable of holding from 2 ounces to about 4 ounces of medicine when used compounding process.

The smooth surface of each scoop shows minor wear from usage. Overall, they have a very handsome and rich patina with various minuscule scuffs and imperfections commensurate with age and use. The only minor damage noted is a 1/4" split near the corner of the handle of the largest scoop.(SEE PHOTO).

This very scarce group of 19th century horn scoops will make a wonderful addition to any apothecary collection!

Offered is a group of six, very scarce, 19th century, tin, apothecary, storage containers with hand-painted, gold gilt labels and a decorative and stylized floral, front embellishment. The gold gilt labels make these early pharmacy canisters really stand out!

The tins sport an early and original, hand-painted, mustard-colored surface patina. The five smaller containers measure approximately 7 inches high x 4 inches wide x 5 inches deep (front to back including the distinctive front floral embellishment). The one large container measures about 8 inches high x 5 inches wide x 5 inches deep.

Structurally, the canisters are very solidly crafted containers, each with a slanted, well-fitting, hinged cover that snaps into place when closed. There are unobtrusive dings, and the finish shows modest wear and paint loss commensurate with a 19th century, well-loved and well-used, dispensary antique.

Offered is a fabulous pair of antique Apothecary Show Globes which includes one fancy Victorian style hanger. Photos provide close-up views of these intricately detailed, high-end show globes, and the 1891 photo from the WHITALL TATUM COMPANY catalog, establishes the age of these beauties.

The overall condition of the globes is very good with the imperfections and wear expected given their 130+ years of age. The decorative frames are sturdy and the globes hold water with ease. At some point long ago, the metal components were painted a gold/brass color. Today, the paint retains a delightful brass tone with an antiqued patina.

The attention to detailing and design of these show globe frames are second to none, pushing these show globes into a class by themselves. Note the intricacy and the elegance of design incorporated into both the show globe collar and the finial - simply outstanding!

The show globes measure 22 inches tall from the top of the crowns to the tip of finials. The exterior of the hand blown glass globes are in good condition. The interior of the globes note a modest yet common and unobtrusive haze which will not be visible when the globes are filled with the colored water of your choice. Additionally, the haziness should clean up if desired.

A singular, fancy wall bracket that swivels from side to side is included, measuring about 15" long x 9" high .

Acquisition of these rarely found, matching, beautifully stunning show globes is an opportunity not to be missed!

Offered is a fabulous, antique, all original, Apothecary Show Globe complete with an outstanding and highly detailed Gargoyle hanger and elaborately designed, all brass-plated fittings! Recently acquired out of an amazing collection of exclusive, high end art glass. Photos provide close-up views of this intricately detailed, high end show globe, and the photo from the WHITALL TATUM COMPANY catalog, dated 1891, establishes the age of this beauty.

One prominent feature of this piece to be considered is the excellent condition of all brass components including the hanger! Nearly all of this wonderful brass plating remains, retaining its original glossy sheen enhanced with a rich, aged patina.

Of course, the attention to the detailing and design of all of the brass components of this globe are second to none, pushing this show globe into a class by itself. Note the intricacy and the elegance of design incorporated into both the show globe collar and the finial - simply outstanding! The gargoyle hanger typifies the Victorian era embrace of elaborate detailing with its combination of curves and curlicues, ending with the head of a fierce, warrior-like gargoyle with wide open jaws- quite capable of supporting this gorgeous show globe.

The show globe measures 22 inches tall from the top of the crown to the tip of finial. The hand blown glass globe condition wise is near perfect on the exterior, while the interior notes a mild, unobtrusive haze which will not be visible when the globe is filled with the colored water of your choice. The haziness should clean up if desired.

The elegantly sculpted wall bracket measures 10.25 inches high x 2.75 inches wide, while the ornately and richly detailed gargoyle hanger is 14.75 inches wide x 9.5 inches high.

Acquisition of this rarely found and beautifully stunning show globe is an opportunity not to be missed, absolutely the best apothecary show globe I have had the privilege of offering in over 40 years!

Offered is a very rare, highly ornate and meticulously detailed, 1887, medicine advertising mirror made for the G.G. Green Pharmaceutical Manufacturer of Woodbury, New Jersey. It features 3 PATENT MEDICINES, patent-owned and offered by Surgeon, Colonel G.G. Green. (brief Bio below)

This gorgeous advertising mirror was gifted to select pharmacists who were required to sign a contract promising to consistently offer the particular Green's medicines that were imprinted on the mirror's frame: Green's August Flower, Ague Conqueror, and Boschee's German Syrup.

The frame measures 21" square with an elaborately embellished decorative face of embossed detailing and is constructed of a plaster-based material. The name "G.G. Green, Woodbury, NJ" is prominently embossed on the bottom portion of the frame.

The frame's construction remains quite sturdy. The overall condition is good with some restoration required, if so desired, to the missing pieces as seen in the photos. The missing pieces cause minimal distraction from the beauty, intricacy and rarity of this frame. The mirror had been replaced at some point prior to our ownership.

A brief biography: Colonel George Gill Green served as a Union surgeon during the Civil War and later became a manufacturer of patent medicines. He reached millionaire status after buying the rights to Ague Conqueror, Boschee's German Syrup and Green's August Flower and then, successfully marketing their use. A local philanthropist, he provided the funding for the construction of Woodbury's Opera House. He also built the G.G. Green Manufacturing building, and both structures are now listed on the National Register of Historic Places.

Offered is this very scarce and quite early, circa 1890s, James and David Kinnell, Smooth Face Hickory Shaft Golf Club made in Scotland. Although smooth face golf clubs fell out of fashion by the very early 1900s, they were still offered in catalogues for a number of years beyond this date.

This smooth face club is stamped on the back "PRESTWICK KK CLUBS". The leather grip is in good condition, and the straight hickory shaft sports a nice aged patina.

Measures 35 inches from heel to top of shaft and is probably a MASHIE although it is not marked as such. There are various small leading edge dings and examples of wear commensurate with this club's 130+ years of age and use.

SOME HISTORY

The Kinnell brothers both served as golf professional and clubmaker at St Nicholas Golf Club . James was their pro from 1897 until 1901 and his brother David served between 1902 and 1936.

Made, warranted and patented in 1863 by Charles Emerson of Charlestown (a suburb of Boston), Massachusetts, this all original razor strap miraculously retains its original cardboard sheath.

The historically-fascinating sheath label is in exquisite condition with minor edge wear noted to the sheath. The strap shows evidence of use and also remains in fine condition.

The 9.35 inch long strap was advertised for use in sharpening not only shaving razors, but also pen knives and surgical instruments!

A rare piece of early Barber Shop Memorabilia!

Offered is a wonderful example of a late 19thC Pharmacy "tool of the trade" known as a pill machine but often referred to as a pill roller.

Pill machines were designed to enhance the productivity of the early pharmacist, and this design was, indeed, popular for many, many years. This pill machine is designed with 24 tubes for medicine-making.

The condition is very good, sporting a nice patina commensurate with its age and use. It is constructed of walnut and embellished with brass edge guards as well as brass grooved molds. The base measures approximately 11.5" L x 7" W x 1.5" H including the footed base. The paddle is 15.25"L x 2.25"W.

An apothecary classic, ready for your collection!

Offered is a lovely, antique, late 19th C, hand-held massaging tool. This skillfully turned hardwood handle and frame features four wood and rubber rollers which facilitate massaging technique. Many modern hand-held massaging tools mimic the design of this antique piece.

Research notes that this early medical instrument was made by the Health Culture Co.

The following patent date is stamped on the interior portion of the wheel (PAT'D APR 12, 02), however, the date of 1892 is also referenced for this particular piece in several sources, so this device appears to have been marketed prior to the granting of a patent for the design.

Measures approximately 5 1/2" x 7 1/2.

Condition is very good! This visually interesting piece retains its original finish which is a warm, honey-colored woodtone with minor stains and wear commensurate with an antique instrument. No damage. It works!!!

Offered is an unusual group of 2 Patent Medicines all of which were indicated for issues related to brain function or emotional conditions.

First, is a sample bottle of FLORAPLEXIN prepared by Franklin Hart of New York. The label notes that it is, "A positive cure for Dyspepsia, Liver complaints, NERVOUS EXHAUSTION, & Consumption." Lots of small print on the back noting that if this medicine is used, "you will be cured" of your particular symptoms which include being NERVOUS, IRRITABLE & GLOOMY or having EVIL FOREBODINGS - rather interesting claims not often made by patent medicine producers. Measures about 3 inches, in very good condition.

Second, is a diminutive, corked, 2.75 inch bottle labeled "THE ENSIGN REMEDIES, "Remedy No. 1." The label notes: "For Abnormal Mental States, Fears, Forebodings, Persistent Thoughts and Evil Suggestions". It is quite rare to find medicines that were specifically indicated for the treatment of mental illness. The Ensign Remedies company was from Battle Creek, Michigan, and was mentioned often in the various medical journals published during the late 1800s and early 1900s. The bottle is excellent and the label shows modest wear, loss and fading.

Third, is Dr. Schoop's is sold.

These nostrums give credence to "good things come in small packages". A desirable duo indeed!

An outstanding, mid 19th century, European-made, porcelain inkwell featuring two gentleman hunters physically fighting over the ownership of a just-snared hare, their hunting dogs loyally assisting in the jostling match for ownership beside them!

Measuring 7.25 inches wide by 4.75 inches deep by 6.25 inches high, this outstanding, circa 1860 - 1870's, polychrome inkwell features removable cover which reveals a base containing two inkwells without pots. Cover features seven quill holes.

Condition is marvelous with some very minor paint wear to edges where one would place hands to remove the top- as noted in photos (tiny white spots seen on the grass and ground areas). Paint/glaze imperfection to top of brown-haired gent's head as noted in photos. No chips, breaks, hairlines, repairs, or repaints.

A fabulous, rarely found, all-original, 150+ year old, antique writing implement guaranteed to complement any collection!

Offered is a very difficult-to-find, large grouping of twenty one, 19th century, porcelain, matching apothecary cabinet drawer pulls, priced at $45 for each pull.

Each pull measures approximately 1.4"W x 1.3"H x 1" front to back (not including bolt). (Please note- "INULA HELEN" is sold.)

The condition of the pulls is very good with only a few minor manufacturing imperfections that add to the desired patina of an antique of this age and period. The decorative gold embellishments painted above and below the medicinal labeling of each pull show moderate loss, primarily "use-wear", due to decades of continual handling over their 140+ years of age. Please note that the "TEREBINT" pull has a rear chip as noted in the individual, close-up photo.

The pulls each sport the following maker's mark on the bottom of the knob: "PAT. FEB 12, 89 - M.D.B. CO. - ST. LOUIS, MO", although on some of the pulls, this marking has been illegibly applied.

Ready for display in your apothecary collection or for retro-chic decorating use on an actual cabinet, be it antique or contemporary!

Offered is a wonderfully hand-crafted, mid-19th century, woodworking, HAND SCRAPER PLANE.

This circa 1860s example has an expertly carved, smooth-angled handle that ends in a flourished, curl-like shape. The overall form of the tool, when viewed in profile, takes on a somewhat futuristic, space-age design- an interesting concept given that this tool is approximately 160 years old! This handsome tool measures 8.25 inches long and sports a warm, aged, brownish patina.

The condition is commensurate with a mildly used antique hand tool. There are the expected unobtrusive small dings, scratches and imperfections typically seen in vintage tools. The blade is sharp and well maintained. A vintage split next to the wedge tightening screw is present on the underside of the scraper.

The hand scraper in woodworking serves as a shaping and finishing tool. It manually removes small amounts of material and can be used instead of sandpaper.