Lilly's Authentic Powders: DRUGS (Eli Lilly Pharmaceutical Specimen Cabinet)
Decorative Art / Scientific Object - Wood and glass apothecary specimen set • Eli Lilly & Company, Indianapolis, Indiana
Style & Movement
Industrial/Scientific Americana; Apothecary Decorative Arts
Medium & Technique
Cased glass vials containing powdered botanicals and chemical compounds, housed in a velvet-lined wood box with paper labels and printed instructional lid insert.
Creation Period
Early 20th Century, circa 1900-1920
Dimensions & Format
Approximately 12 x 8 x 3 inches (closed); Rectangular hinged case
Subject Description
A comprehensive collection of medicinal powders used for pharmaceutical training or sales demonstrations. The set features uniform glass vials with screw-cap lids, each containing a different substance such as powdered bark, roots, and minerals. The interior lid features a printed index titled 'Lilly's Authentic Powders - DRUGS'.
Condition & Value Assessment
Condition Assessment
Good to Very Good - The wood case shows minor surface wear; labels on vials are largely intact but show yellowing consistent with age; contents appear stable but should be handled as hazardous materials.
Estimated Market Value
$400 - $800 USD
Auction Estimate
$300 - $600 USD
Provenance History
Likely originally utilized as a traveling salesman's sample kit or an educational display for a pharmacy school or commercial apothecary.
Art Historical Significance
Represents the transition of pharmacology from handmade botanical remedies to standardized industrial manufacturing. Eli Lilly is a titan of American industry; these early kits are significant artifacts of medical history and commercial design.
Notable Features
Includes the original printed indexing sheet on the interior lid and appears to have a high level of completeness in terms of the number of vials present.
Condition Issues
Aging and oxidation of pharmaceutical powders; yellowing/foxing of paper labels; minor scuffs to the exterior wood finish; potential degradation of the interior velvet lining.
Conservation Recommendations
Store in a climate-controlled environment away from direct sunlight to prevent further fading of labels and chemical breakdown of contents. Do not open vials due to potential toxicity of vintage compounds.