Eighteenth-century physicians carried their medicines in these beautiful boxes. This one is made of mahogany and would very probably have been taken on campaign because it has brass carrying handles. There are double opening doors that lock as well as a secret compartment. When the cabinet was open, it gave access to a clasp on the front right hand side. When this was pulled out, a compartment at the back slid out. It was used for storing poisons.

As well as the bottles, the cabinet contained a pestle and mortar, a set of scales made of brass with iron weights, a metal funnel and a measuring tube. The drawer handles were made of ivory.