Germany, first half of the 19th century (circa 1830-1840).
Dimension : 6.5 x 3.9 inches
Superb German portable homeopathic apothecary kit, in the form of a book box in full green morocco highly ornated : both sides are stamped with a cathedral-style decoration, back with gilt stamped decorations and title “Homöpatische Apotheke”, compartmentalized box inside (wooden uprights).
Extraordinary beautiful and practical object, which contains on two trays 60 miniature bottles (0.8 inches high) with cork (some still filled with homeopathic granules and labeled), as well as a mechanical pencil, a small green morocco box and a double drawer.
Quite exceptional set, finely executed, which could be the travel set of a proponent of homeopathy. This alternative approach to medicine was founded in the Germanic States by Christian Friedrich Samuel Hahnemann (1755-1843). After the publication of his Organon of Rational Medicine in 1810, his doctrine and method spread quickly ; although a great success among the aristocracy and the bourgeoisie throughout Europe, homeopathy was also very criticized. Care was often provided by mail, so we can imagine that this box needed to be strong enough for a safe shipping of the preparations. And what could be better than a luxuriously bound book for a wealthy patient to discreetly keep their remedies in their own library ?
Some very minor defects (small alterations to the leather covering the mechanical pencil, slight friction on the drawers of the inner box, some damaged corks), otherwise this magnificent piece is in great condition and a handmade work of art.
Offered by Librairie L’Art et la Maniere
Price : $9,900 / €8,500
To purchase, contact contact@bibliam.com
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