A metal tin of antiseptic and anesthetic lozenges containing menthol and borated cocaine , formerly used to treat throat ailments. The polychrome, typographic label features Art Nouveau ornamentation and the inscription: "Pharmacie C. Joly – Pharmacist-Chemist of the Faculty of Lille – Cartignies (Nord)" . A rare example of a pharmacopoeia from before the regulation of narcotics in the early 20th century.
✦ Origin: France, Cartignies (Nord) ✦ Estimated period: Circa 1900–1910 ✦ Dimensions: 8×5×2.5 cm ✦ Material: Lithographed metal ✦ Condition: Good overall condition with patina from use, label slightly worn but still legible
A fascinating object from regional pharmaceutical history, this box evokes a time when cocaine was still used in common remedies for its anesthetic properties. An iconic collector's item, at the crossroads of science, graphic design, and curiosity.
