This is a rare find: a complete London-made apothecary box! 

 

An apothecary box was a portable chest used by apothecaries (pharmacists) and physicians from the 18th to the 20th centuries.  They typically contained numerous small drawers, compartments and bottles for storing various medications.  These boxes were essential to a traveling doctor of the time.  The layout of the box allowed medicines and necessary supplies to be found quickly, which was of great importance in urgent situations.  Apothecary boxes may be considered an early version of a medicine cabinet.

 

Rosewood resembles mahogany but it is a fine tropical wood that varies in color, with a unique black grain.  Its rich hues made it popular in antique English furniture. Rosewood was sourced in Brazil and India.  When rosewood was cut, it gave off a scent resembling roses, hence the name.