Posted 12 years ago
Bill71
(3 items)
I acquired this glass bowl about ten years ago at auction (Christie's SK) as one item in a lot of pharmacy related items. I collect antiques and artifacts related to science and technology and I am not an expert in glass identification. The bowl is quite heavy (3.6 lbs.), has a polished pontil mark, and scattered small bubble inclusions leading me to think it is hand blown leaded glass. The glass pestle (5.375"lg) has similar inclusions. Numerous scratches on the base of the bowl seem consistent with its use as a mixing bowl for pharmaceuticals. Packaged with the bowl were several "Temple Brand" stainless steel spatulas manufactured by W.T. Ltd Sheffield England. Photos of similar spatulas are posted by the Victoria Museum Melbourne and thegarret.org.uk where they are identified for mixing lotions and pastes. I have not found bowls similar to this.
Are glass bowls of this size in any apothecary/pharmacy collections? Can anyone estimate date of manufacture of the bowl & pestle? The spatulas were probably made after 1920 when stainless steel became available. Is anyone familiar with “Temple Brand”?
I can't help with your items, however I wanted to compliment you. The information you provided is wonderful. So much more helpful than simply saying "What is this". Many don't even try to research their own items.
Kudos to you.