Apothecary's balance, model 00, in rectangular glass case, lower drawer contains 5 spare pans, 2 brass scoops, small envelope of powder and 79 assorted weights, made by Oertling, London, English, c.1880

Accurately measuring out ingredients for medical treatments is vital to ensure the patient takes the correct dosage. If incorrect the dosages can be lethal. Enclosed by a wooden glass and ivory case, this brass and steel balance was designed by Ludwig Oertling. He had settled in London from Germany in the early 1840s and his firm became the leading manufacturer of balances in Britain. Oertling’s balances were also used in scientific research and chemical analysis.