A single owner of 18th century and later medicine chests to be auctioned.

We will be offering a large, single-owner collection of 18th century and later medicine chests (with related items) in our November 23rd sale, all gathered by an enthusiastic Berkshire collector. Early examples include a mahogany ‘spice cupboard’ type chest, circa 1800, containing hidden sections, numerous original bottles and contents, a mahogany chest, circa 1780, the interior bottles behind fenestrated windows, and a Sheraton period travelling cabinet, mahogany and inlaid, on four castors with contents.

A rare and large Regency example, probably originally supplied by Reece’s Medical Hall, of Piccadilly, is estimated at £7,000 – £10,000 (+ BP). The figured mahogany chest has extensive brass and marquetry inlay, with a plush lined interior and numerous bottles with contents, many bearing the original label for Llewellyn Brothers of St Clears, Glamorgan. It carries brass side fixing points, indicating its likely naval or campaign use.

The collection gives a good sample of the change in style of medicine chests in Britain, from the fine examples owned by the wealthy for domestic use, through to the more functional, but still well-appointed chests of the second half of the 19th century.

Also included are 19th century field surgeon’s post mortem sets, a pharmaceutical salesman’s sample set, various apothecary sets and a WWII period medical case, once the property of Group Captain Samuel Cuthbert Rexford-Welch (1915-2013), who saw service in the post-war years monitoring nuclear testing at Christmas Island.

The team of experts at Dawsons are always happy to provide a free verbal appraisal and auction valuation; regularly consigning an array of wonderful items to our monthly Fine Art & Antiques sale. We can also provide insurance valuations, where required.

Please do get in touch, should you any Fine Art or Antiques that you are keen to have valued. We would love to hear from you.

0207 431 9445  |  info@DawsonsAuctions.co.uk