The largest private collection of antique, apothecary objects in UK is set to go under the hammer
The collection of hundreds of items was amassed by a professor of health economics over several decades.
The collection from the Georgian era to the late Victorian period features a complete pharmacist’s shop from around 1880.
READ MORE: Rare Sean Connery James Bond doll sells for whopping £6,500
- Advertisement -
Other items include a large mahogany display cabinet with a unique glass advertising label, a large quantity of apothecary drawers and jars and two large mortar and pestles.
It became a labour of love for Professor Darrin Baines as he crammed his early Victorian townhouse full to the brim with curiosities – all antique apothecary objects – transforming it into an immersive environment for his research into the evolution of pharmacy.
Prof Baines said: “Writing about the history of pharmacy I began to collect pharmaceutical objects – from early Georgian pharmacy bottles through to things from the Victorian age – because it gave me an understanding of how the profession evolved.
“Every object tells a story, and each is a witness to the past – I wanted to immerse myself in that.”
The sale of his collection is due to the sale of his home in Leominster, Herefordshire, as reported by What’s The Jam.
- Advertisement -
Other highlights include a rare glass hanging carboy from circa 1890, numerous glass pharmacy signs and a near complete set of ‘Chemist and Druggist’ books spanning 1853 to 2015 – one of only two in the world.
Auctioneer Lindsey Braune said: “It is a great privilege to be auctioning Professor Baines’ collection, which is truly remarkable.
“This was clearly a labour of love, and we hope these fascinating objects find an equally loving new home.”
- Advertisement -
She added: “The collection is so extensive it is occupying a large section of our Cirencester saleroom, which will be open for viewing in the days before the auction.”
The Cotswold Auction Company sale will be on Tuesday, June 24 and Wednesday, June 25.
READ MORE: Voldemort’s wand set to sell for £15,000 as treasure trove of movie memorabilia goes to auction
