Victorian Mahogany Apothecary Chest with Contents

Victorian Mahogany Apothecary Chest with Contents

This is a beautiful example of Victorian craftsmenship,  practical and functionality, which you see in Victorian items. The chest is made from Mahogany hardwood and has brass campaign style handles. The top compartment has 16 original bottles (some with contents and waxed sealed or glass stopper). In the bottom is a sliding draw, which is released by lifting a brass locking mechanism in the top box on the right side. The bottom draw contains miscellaneous items including a brass hand held scales with a set of weights. There is also a hidden compartment in the draw where poison bottles are kept out of sight. The top box has its original cloth lining with a paper label. The age is approximately mid to late 1880’s (1850s to 1880s).

The chest would have been used by a family doctor to weigh / mix potions and medication to treat the patients, well before the days of a pharmacy and over the counter medication. A time when your local doctor was a respected pillar in society. Today the chest is a fascinating decorative item and will stir conversations of days gone by.

Condition  - is used, but good condition as you can see in the pictures. The wood has scratches markes and dints associated with its age and environment of use. There is no key to the main box and is kept locked by brass fastener on both sides. The contents of the bottles are unknown and hence must be handled with care and kept out of the way of children. The base has a green baize material that is very worn. The wood and brass work has been cleaned and polished, but retains it's original character.

Approximate Measurements

Width 18 cm ( 7 inches)
Depth 18 cm ( 7 inches)
Height 20 cm ( 8 inch)
Weight 3.5kg