Victorian Mahogany 18-Drawer Chemist Apothecary Chest

Victorian Mahogany 18-Drawer Chemist Apothecary Chest

Sold

Late 19th Century Apothecary Chest.
A fine mahogany 18-drawer chemist, apothecary chest with ebony knobs with inset morther-of-pearl. Each drawer labeled with black on gold with names of chemicals or potions used at the time. Some hand inscribed labels can be found on the interior of the drawers. The bank of drawers comprise of three rows of four small drawers on top of two rows of three larger drawers. The drawer fronts with the names Dulcamara, Ipecac.Rad, Cusparle.C, Diapente, Galbani.G, Galle.Cer, Cymini.Sem, Gly Cyrrh.P, Creta.Prep, Lapis Pum, Enulae. P, Faenug. Sem, Lini. Pulv, Glycyrrh s, Lini. Sem, Linteum. Opt, Guaiaci. Ras & Haematox. Lig. The paper labels inside the drawers have the name of the original Exeter chemist 'Broom Reid & Harris, pharmacists & opticians' (now trading under the name 'Audify').

Broom Reid & Harris began life as a Victorian chemist in the 1840's on Queen Street, Exeter and gradually evolved to become one of the pioneers of early hearing healthcare in the 1920's. Originally specialising in pharmaceuticals the firm also sold optics, cameras, binoculars, barometers and even artificial eyes and kneecaps! In 1924 hearing aids were introduced and Broom Reid & Harris was at the forefront of the pioneering development of hearing care; witnessing the progression from primitive ear trumpets right through to today's ultra-discreet and intelligent hearing systems. It lays claim to being the longest established hearing care practice in the United Kingdom.

Dimensions:

Height 85.5 cm / 33 34"
Width 94 cm / 37 "
Depth 23.5 cm / 9 12"
Period

1850-1899

Year

Circa 1890

Medium

Mahogany

Country

United Kingdom

Condition

The apothecary chest is in very good overall condition, with minor imperfections, stains to the drawers and normal wear from age and use.

RELATED ITEMS