Antique French Apothecary Enamel Label – “Gelatina Alb.”

A beautifully preserved set of antique French apothecary enamel plaques, dating to the late 19th–early 20th century (c. 1890–1920). The main plaque reads “Gelatina Alb.”, the traditional Latin abbreviation for gelatina alba, or pharmaceutical-grade white gelatin—once an essential ingredient in historic medical and laboratory preparations.

Crafted in fired porcelain enamel on metal, each piece has a substantial, satisfying weight, reflecting the quality of early institutional signage designed for daily use in pharmacies, hospitals, or laboratories. The accompanying oval number plates (14, 15, and 26) would have originally corresponded to drawers or cabinets within an apothecary interior.

The crisp black typography against the soft white enamel, paired with gentle wear and small chips from age, gives these plaques an unmistakable old-world presence. Today, they make striking decorative accents—perfect for gallery walls, shelving displays, kitchens, or anywhere a touch of European history feels at home.

Details:

• “Gelatina Alb.” plaque: approx. 6 × 1.5 inches
• Number plaques: approx. 2.5 × 1.5 inches each
• Porcelain enamel on metal
• Original mounting holes present
• Beautiful age-appropriate wear and patina

A rare and evocative set that carries both history and timeless character, equally suited to collectors and lovers of European interiors.

How long will it take to receive my order?

Your order is shipped from our location in Calgary, Alberta, Canada. We aim to have all packages out our door within 1 to 3 business days.

Your order will be shipped using a courier such as Canada Post, UPS, or Purolator. Depending on your distance from us, or if border crossing is involved, orders will take between 3 and 10 business days to arrive. Saturday and Sunday are not business days for mail in Canada.

We do not currently ship or deliver large items such as furniture.

Can I return my item?

Shopping online can be difficult and we hope you love your purchase. We have limits on what can be returned and how. Please read our in depth return policy and ask questions prior to your purchase to avoid disappointments.

New items can be returned within 14 days of receipt for exchange or store credit. All other items including vintage and seasonal are considered final sale. Please look carefully at photos and descriptions to avoid any disappointment with regards to size or condition.

If for some reason you are not satisfied with your purchase we are happy to accept the return of any new item in the exact condition in which it was received. Please contact us to receive return address information.

The buyer remains responsible for the costs to return any item. Please package the item in the manner it was sent to you.