This charming antique amber glass bottle is a classic example of early pharmaceutical packaging from Parke, Davis & Company, a pioneering drug manufacturer known for products like Cascara Sagrada, digitalis extracts, and other medicinal compounds. The rectangular body with beveled edges transitions into a narrow cylindrical neck and flared lip, designed for cork stoppers and easy pouring or dispensing. The amber tint protected contents from UV light degradation, making it ideal for apothecary use.
The base features embossed markings: "P.D. & Co." (abbreviation for Parke, Davis & Company) above the number "42," which is the company's catalog or mold number for this specific bottle style. No other embossing or labels remain, suggesting it was a standard stock bottle rather than a branded product-specific one. The glass exhibits seed bubbles (small air inclusions) and minor imperfections, hallmarks of glassblowing techniques from the late 19th to early 20th century.
Perfect for collectors of antique bottles, medical history enthusiasts, or vintage decor. This piece evokes the era of old-time pharmacies and early drug innovation. Photos show all angles, including the base embossing and any wear.
Material: Amber glass (brown-tinted soda-lime glass, commonly used for light-sensitive pharmaceuticals)
Origin: Manufactured by or for Parke, Davis & Company, Detroit, Michigan, USA. Founded in 1866, Parke Davis was one of the earliest modern pharmaceutical companies, pioneering standardized drug production and becoming a global leader in medicines like vaccines, antitoxins, and compounds for various ailments. The company was acquired by Warner-Lambert in 1970 and later by Pfizer.
Age: Approximately 1880-1920. This era aligns with Parke Davis's peak production of embossed glass bottles before transitioning to more modern labeling. The presence of air bubbles and mold seams (visible in photos) suggests machine-made construction typical of the automatic bottle machine period starting around 1903, but the style could date earlier to semi-automatic or hand-finished methods.
Condition: Good antique condition for its age. The bottle shows typical signs of wear including surface patina, minor scratches, and interior residue from previous contents. There are numerous air bubbles throughout the glass, adding to its authentic vintage character. No chips, cracks, major scratches, or structural damage. The embossing on the base is clear and legible.Â
Item dimensions: 3" tall × 1.25" wide × 0.75" deep Â
Weight of item: 1.4 ozÂ
Styled With
You may also like