Antique Amber Glass Apothecary Bottle – "Paraldehydum" – Ground Glass Stopper c.1900s
Short Description:
This antique amber glass apothecary bottle features a ground glass stopper and its original printed label for "Paraldehydum" (Paraldehyde), a once-common sedative. Dating from the early 20th century, it offers a fascinating glimpse into historical pharmacy practice. An ideal collectible for medical history enthusiasts, vintage chemist display collectors, or as an authentic prop for period settings.
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This vintage apothecary bottle is a fine example of early 20th-century pharmaceutical glassware, likely dating from the late 19th century to the 1930s. Here's a breakdown of its notable features and historical significance:
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Description & Features
Material: Amber (brown) glass, used historically to protect light-sensitive substances from UV degradation.
Label: Reads “Paraldehydum (Paraldehyde) – Dose: 30 to 120 minims”
This is a Latinized label, typical of Victorian and Edwardian apothecary bottles, suggesting pharmaceutical use.
Stopper: Ground glass stopper with a flat, rectangular tab – characteristic of chemists’ display bottles, allowing a tight seal to prevent evaporation.
Blown or Molded: Based on the clarity and uniformity, this appears to be mould-blown, likely pressed into a mold and hand-finished.
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About Paraldehyde
Paraldehyde was a sedative and anticonvulsant used from the mid-19th century into the mid-20th century, often for:
Treating delirium tremens (alcohol withdrawal)
Seizures and epilepsy
Insomnia and psychiatric agitation
The dosage label in minims (1 minim ≈ 0.06 mL) places this bottle firmly in a pre-metric era, likely before the 1960s, and possibly as early as 1890–1930.
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Collectibility 
Collectors value such bottles for their:
Antique pharmaceutical history
Amber glass and ground stoppers
Original paper labels in legible condition
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⚠️ Disclaimer
This item is sold strictly as a decorative collectible or for historical/educational interest only. It is not intended for use, consumption, or the storage of any substances. The bottle may reference or once have contained toxic or hazardous compounds; therefore, please handle with care and keep out of reach of children and pets. Objet d’Art Stuff accepts no liability for misuse of this item.