Apothecaries’ Weights: Pondera Medicinalia

1989

Storage: Medical WZ 417 V253

Belgium: Centre for the Study of Apothecaries’ Weights

While a tradition of academic pharmacy developed in continental Europe, the situation in Britain was different. Many groups were involved with the preparation and supply of medicines. Accurate weights and measures were important. Previously part of the Grocers’ Company, in 1617 a Royal Charter led to the setting up of the Worshipful Society of Apothecaries of London. The ruling in the ‘Rose Case’ in 1704 effectively gave apothecaries the right to practice medicine, meaning that apothecaries may be viewed as forerunners of present-day general (medical) practitioners. The set of ‘drams and scruples’ for apothecaries c1775 was made and sold by John Kirk of St Paul’s Church Yard in London. Note the clear lettering and numbers ‘in so plain a manner that no mistake can be made’.