Pair of clear antique French apothecary jars - labeled 9½"

These two antique French pharmacy jars date from the late nineteenth / early twentieth century. The labels are gilded and were fixed from the inside of the jars, they read "Quinquina" and "Cevadille Pulv:". These will make a lovely addition to a curiosity cabinet and are a fun collectible to display in a bathroom or powder room.

Quinquina" is a type of tonic made from the bark of the cinchona tree, which contains quinine. Quinine was discovered by the Quechua people of Peru, who used the bark to treat fevers. Its use spread to Europe in the 17th century, where it became known for its medicinal properties against malaria. Quinine was later combined with wine to create a more palatable tonic, known as "Quinquina." This beverage gained popularity not only for its supposed health benefits but also for its bitter taste, which many found appealing.