Vintage cocaine pillbox - Houdé Paris

Vintage lithographed tin box of Houdé’s cocaine, borate and menthol lozenges. Marketed for sore throats and hoarseness, these lozenges were notably recommended to public speakers, singers and teachers to make the voice clearer and more resonant. The label also touted their use against seasickness and certain digestive disorders: striking evidence of the diverse medicinal uses of cocaine in the past. The entire design is highlighted by an elegant Greek key border.

✦ Period: Early 20th century
✦ Origin: Laboratoires Houdé, 9 rue Dieu, Paris
✦ Dimensions: approx. 9 × 6.5 × 1.5 cm
✦ Material: Lithographed tin
✦ Condition: Good overall condition, with patina, wear and minor losses.

A cocaine medicine box for a collection of vintage remedies or a display of medical curiosities.