SOLD
This label-under-glass (LUG) wide mouth apothecary bottle is in fine condition and sports ground glass construction to the stopper. The label is complete, undamaged and displays very nicely. Note that the reverse side of the label, viewed only through the back of the bottle, has an unusual, stylized "WT&Co" circular trademark label in place.
Of note, the medicine this bottle once contained was a syrup of powdered OPIUM as well as IPECAC, which is an expectorant/emetic. Ipecac was used to induce sweating, treat colds, and reduce fever in adults and children. Opium had been used for centuries as a sedative and to relieve pain. Beginning in the early 19th century, it became a common treatment in the US for an alarmingly wide range of ailments in both children and adults, quickly leading to an addiction epidemic which peaked in 1895. Advances in medicine during this time period and education of doctors via medical instructors and textbooks vehemently warned against the overuse of opium, leading to a drop-off in common use. Regulations were also passed during this time period which restricted access to opiates formerly available "over-the-counter" to access via valid prescription only. A bit of brief history of the medicine once contained in this bottle.
A rarely found narcotic bottle in superb condition!
SOLD
The blown-glass globe is in very good condition with the expected and minor, age-related scratches and imperfections of antique glass. There are no cracks, and the globe holds water just fine!
The lovely and decorative, iron supporting frame sports an early, gold-painted finish which is quite appealing. (The original, factory-manufactured finish was completed in brass plate.) The interior of the globe's metal crown has minimal, superficial rust as seen in the photo.
This globe displays quite nicely and is ready for exhibit in your collection!
SOLD
The machine was made by The J. M. Grosvenor Co., Boston, and was the most widely used cachet preparation device in American pharmacies.
The condition of this wonderful apothecary tool of the trade is very good, complete with the warm, rich patina one would expect of an antique of this age including the usual scratches, marks and unobtrusive dings and tarnish. The metal parts appear to be nickel plated, and the case is of a hard wood construction. The apparatus measures approximately 18”L x 10”W x 2” H.
The accessories appear to be complete when compared to the images seen in the directions that is glued to the inside case and my reference text. There are 3 packets full of directions for patient use. There is an extra set of funnels included with this sale.
The interior divider has some partially missing edges that does not distract from this set .
A must addition for any pharmacy/apothecary collection.
Please check my website often as this and many other vintage pharmacy items from the Pierce Pharmacy will be posted in the coming weeks. (Circa 1960 PHOTOS of the Pierce Pharmacy are NOT INCLUDED in the sale.)
SOLD
The 30 inch chains are complete and attach to the fancy collar. All parts are in very good condition and the globe CAN hold water. The decorative Victorian hanger and wall bracket make this handsome globe ready to display in your collection.
Showglobes have a rather interesting history in the early drug store / apothecary shop and can be compared to the "Trade Sign" that was hung on the exterior of a business to advertise a product or service. Although there has been much debate over time as to their actual purpose, it has been long thought that the color of the water was symbolic...for example, red and blue water representing arterial and venous blood. Some historians have suggested that showglobes were used as visual communication tools with red water representing plague or disease present in the community, and green water signaling an "all is well" in the community to travelers wishing to stop overnight. It has also been said that show globes in New England apothecaries would be illuminated at night to warn ships in the harbor of sickness, plague, etc.
SOLD
The brass pans and scale are marked “Henry Troemner” Philadelphia. His company began making balances in the USA in 1840, and was singularly, the most successful scale maker of his day.
The scale measures approximately 20 inches long x 9 inches wide and is in excellent condition. The oak wood case is designed in the handsome Eastlake style and retains its original honey colored finish. The pink marble top and brass pans round out a near mint 19th century scale!
Difficult to find in this condition!