Antique apothecary jar

Antique French Apothecary Bottle – “Alun”

Dimensions: 10” H x 3.25” W (Mouth: 2.25”)

A beautifully aged French apothecary bottle, once used to store alum (alun), a mineral historically prized for its astringent and preservative properties. Alum was commonly found in 19th and early 20th-century pharmacies, used in everything from medicinal remedies to textile dyeing and leather tanning. This bottle would have belonged to a pharmacist, herbalist, or chemist, part of a carefully stocked apothecary or dispensary.

The original paper label, with its decorative border, evokes the refined aesthetic of 19th-century French pharmacy packaging. Labels of this kind were often printed using letterpress or lithographic techniques, applied by hand to glass bottles filled with medicinal compounds, botanical extracts, or household remedies. Over time, these labels absorbed the patina of daily use, softening their once-crisp edges and darkening with age—each mark a testament to their history.

A versatile decorative piece, this bottle makes a striking statement in a collection of antique pharmacy jars or repurposed as a vase for fresh or dried flowers. Its subtle irregularities, thick glass, and aged paper label add character to any space, blending seamlessly with both antique and modern interiors.

Condition: Wear consistent with age, with slight fading and wear to the label, adding to its authenticity. No chips or cracks. One noticeable scratch 

France, late 19th–early 20th century