Impressive large-scale antique glass apothecary / pharmacy show globe composed of three fitted principal sections—a substantial pedestal base, large lower globe, and smaller upper globe—displayed with an included replacement glass stopper.
Fully assembled, the piece stands approximately 26.5 inches tall and weighs approximately 6 lbs 2.5 oz. Its tall, architectural silhouette and stacked globe construction give it a commanding presence for display.
Pharmacy show globes were historically used as highly visible symbols of the apothecary and druggist trade, often filled with brightly colored liquid for dramatic display. Multi-section towered examples such as this are among the more architecturally striking forms. This example features fitted, ground-glass connections between its separate sections.
CONSTRUCTION & APPROXIMATE MEASUREMENTS
Overall assembled height:
• 26.5"
Overall assembled weight:
• 6 lbs 2.5 oz
LARGE LOWER GLOBE • Approx. 13.25" tall when removed from the base • Approx. 12.5" exposed height when assembled • Approx. 7" at widest point • Lower insertion nub/stem extends approximately 3/4" into the base
SMALL UPPER GLOBE • Approx. 8.25" total height • Approx. 7.5" exposed height when assembled • Approx. 3.5" at widest point • Lower insertion nub/stem extends approximately 3/4"–1" into the large globe below
GLASS STOPPER / TOPPER • Approx. 5.75" total length • Approx. 3.25" exposed when assembled • Approx. 2.5" lower insertion stem • Just over 2" at widest point • Long glass stem seats inside the upper globe • Stopper has no chips or cracks • Stopper is a compatible replacement sourced separately and is not represented as original to the show globe
PEDESTAL BASE • Approx. 3.75" tall • Approx. 6.75" diameter • Approx. 2 lbs 8 oz
Each of the three principal sections is separate and nests into the component beneath it. The lower portions of the two globes are formed with projecting glass nubs/stems that seat inside the piece below, while the replacement stopper has an elongated insertion stem that extends into the upper globe.
Please note that the individual component measurements are approximate. Because the glass sections nest inside one another when assembled, their individual overall heights should not be added together to determine the assembled height.
The clear glass beautifully emphasizes the unusual stacked form and substantial proportions of the piece. It is especially striking displayed as-is, and traditional pharmacy show globes were also historically displayed with colored liquid for dramatic visual effect.
Please review all photographs carefully, as they form an important part of the description and show the glass, construction, proportions, and condition in detail.
Due to the size, weight, and multi-piece glass construction of this item, it will be packed with exceptional care for shipment.
CONDITION: Very good antique condition. Glass exhibits minor surface wear and natural irregularities consistent with age and manufacture. The large lower globe features a small manufacturing dimple near the lower fitting, original to the glass rather than a chip or crack, with no apparent effect on structural integrity. The original stopper was absent when acquired. The piece is displayed with a compatible large ground-glass display-vessel stopper with an elongated shank, sourced separately and included as a replacement. The replacement stopper is not represented as original to the show globe.
No chips or cracks observed.
Please review photographs carefully for complete condition.
