Historical information

Small medicine glass bottle branded "C.J. Ziebell, Britannia Pharmacy". The bottle is associated with Charles Johann Ziebell, a pharmaceutical chemist who, after studying in Germany, operated the Britannia Pharmacy in Brunswick Street, Fitzroy, for the entirety of his working life.

During this period, Brunswick Street was home to numerous pharmacies, shops and medical practices. Charles was reportedly the first chemist in Australia to manufacture hydrogen peroxide, along with developing a range of other pharmaceutical and beauty products. Hydrogen peroxide was produced in a building located behind the pharmacy.

Family history suggests that a large chemical company later acquired or appropriated Charles's formula. Believing he had been unfairly treated, and amidst strong anti-German sentiment during the early twentieth century, Charles subsequently took his own life.

Physical description

Small clear medicine glass bottle branded "C.J. Ziebell, Britannia Pharmacy". The base is embossed “W.T. & Co. U.S.A. 1892”, likely referring to Whitall Tatum & Co., an American glass manufacturer known for producing pharmaceutical and chemical bottles. The 1892 date may relate to a patent or mould design rather than the exact date of manufacture.

Inscriptions & markings

W T & Co USA 1892