A brass bound campaign style mid-Victorian apothecary cabinet by S. Maw, dating from approximately 1845–1860.

The mahogany case has brass reinforcing straps, a recessed carrying handle and a hinged drop front. Inside the lid, the surviving gilt lettering reads “S. Maw’s Improved Portable Domestic Medical Cabinet”.

The fitted interior contains a collection of empty glass bottles with ground-glass stoppers. A removable compartmented tray holds a small balance with glass pans, a selection of apothecary weights, a graduated glass measure, a glass feeding vessel and two spatulas or spreaders.

Compact medicine cabinets such as this were intended to keep remedies and the equipment for measuring and preparing them together. Today, the cabinet makes an engaging display piece for a collection of antique pharmacy objects or scientific curiosities.

Details:

• Maker’s marking: S. Maw

• Estimated date: c.1845–1860

• Mahogany case with brass fittings

• Dimensions: approximately 22 × 19.5 × 16cm

• All bottles are empty; no medicines are included

• Includes the bottles, stoppers and accessories photographed

Condition:

The case shows scratches, knocks, small chips and age-related wear to the finish. The brass has marks and an aged patina. The lid lining is torn and missing in places, although most of the maker’s gilt wording survives.

The glassware shows staining and wear from historical use, with some chips and apparent cracks to some pieces. Please examine the detailed photographs carefully. The accessories have not been tested for accuracy, and the completeness and originality of every component cannot be guaranteed.

A key is included: it fits the lock but does not operate it.

Offered as an antique collectible for historical interest and display. The photographs form part of the description.

In situ images can be AI generated so please rely on the quoted size for accurate dimensions.