Bottle, Chemist

Production date
1900-1930s
 Description
A hexagonal brown glass chemist's bottle, containing fluid to be used in a vaporiser. Two glass panels of the bottle are ridged. The bottle's label describes it as " CRESYLENE VAPORISING LIQUID / (CRESOL B.P.) " It is " Three Carboys Brand " from " H.F. Stevens Ltd ", a Christchurch chemist. Beneath this the labels explain the fluid is to be used for treating whooping cough and bronchial asthma, and provides information on how to treat poisoning. The bottle has " NOT TO BE TAKEN " embossed on the rear. The bottle is sealed with a metal cap but the smell of the fluid is very strong. The bottle is approximately half full of vaporising fluid liquid.
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Object detail

Production date
1900-1930s
Production place
New Zealand/Canterbury/Christchurch
Classification
Product Package/Packages and Containers
Credit line
This very strong smelling liquid was used to ease chest conditions prior to the 1930s, through the use of a vaporising lamp. This liquid would be gently heated above a spirit stove in a lamp, which would release soothing vapours to ease congestion in the lungs. After the 1930s, electric vaporisers became available, reducing the risk of using an open flame in the bedroom!
Accession number
PA2014.071
Collection type
Social History
Material
Glass
Adhesive paper
Paper
Metal

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