An exceptional Regency-era Apothecary Chest. Crafted from high-quality solid mahogany with a rich, historic patina, this portable pharmacy is a museum-quality piece of social history. Before the 1858 Medical Act standardised pharmacy in the UK, wealthy households and country doctors relied on these portable mahogany chests to store and compound their own remedies and in particular where medical assistance may not have been close by.
 
The box features a tiered interior: two removable trays, the top with brass weights and glass spatulas, underneath this a deeper tray with glass pestle and mortar and measuring container with hand etched gradations plus three small bottles with hand cut stoppers and two further glass jars with silver plated copper lids, some wear to the silver plate. Beneath this tray there is a void containing the brass scales.
 
The interior is felt lined with padded felt in the lid, an assortment of bottles all but one with hand cut stoppers, no major chips, some bottles with labels. All bottles empty.
The case is mahogany a a campaign style recessed brass handle and the original key which works the lock. The case is in good solid condition with a few scratch marks to the lid.
 
Offered as a rare collectors item for display only.
 
The case measures  30 x 21 x 16cm (11.81" x 8.27" x 6.3").