Antique Dr Bengues balsam cardboard box. French original and rare!!! Some age related wear
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11 cm wide
4 cm depth
3 cm tall
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Antique Dr Bengué’s Balsam Box – French Chemist Pharmacy Ephemera
Paris & London | Early 20th Century
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A wonderfully evocative antique pharmaceutical box once used to contain Dr Bengué’s Balsam, a popular medicated liniment produced by Dr Bengué & Co. This slim rectangular box, finished in a rich oxblood red with its original printed paper label, is a charming survivor from the golden age of chemist-made remedies.
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The label proudly advertises Dr Bengué’s Balsam as a counter-irritant liniment, historically used for muscular aches, rheumatism, chest complaints and general pains—very much in keeping with late-Victorian and Edwardian self-care practices. The printed price of 2 francs remains visible, adding further authenticity and period charm.
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The box opens to reveal a plain, paper-lined interior, now empty, making it ideal today as a decorative display piece, a collector’s item, or a stylish prop for interiors inspired by apothecaries, curiosity cabinets, or vintage shop displays.
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Maker’s History – Dr Bengué & Co
Dr Bengué was a French chemist whose medicinal balsam gained international popularity in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. The firm operated from Paris, with a London presence to serve the British market—something clearly reflected in the bilingual, export-focused packaging.
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At a time when medicines were often developed and sold directly by chemists, products like Dr Bengué’s Balsam became household names, trusted for everyday ailments long before modern pharmaceuticals took over. Original packaging such as this is now increasingly scarce, particularly in intact, display-worthy condition.
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Condition
Genuine antique with visible age-related wear, rubbing and patina
Original printed label remains legible
Structurally sound with no major losses
Empty interior (no contents)
All wear is entirely consistent with age and adds to the authenticity and character of the piece.
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Styling & Collecting Ideas
Perfect for apothecary displays, shelves, or cabinets of curiosities
A lovely addition to a pharmacy, medical or advertising ephemera collection
Ideal as a small trinket box or purely decorative historic object
