Antique “Fly & Maggot Oils” Poison Bottle – "NOT TO BE TAKEN" – G.A. Davis, Agricultural Chemist, Lechlade – Emerald Green – c.1900–1920
 
Description:
A striking antique emerald-green poison bottle featuring the classic British NOT TO BE TAKEN ribbed poison pattern, paired with an excellent vintage label for G.A. Davis, Agricultural Chemist, Lechlade. These bottles were used for harsh agricultural chemical preparations designed to treat fly strike, maggots, lice, and similar livestock ailments.
The bottle exhibits the iconic angular ribbed sides used to tactually warn users of toxic contents. The applied-style lip, heavy mould seams, and embossed base numerals are consistent with early 20th-century British manufacture. The surviving front label is a superb decorative element and makes this an excellent collector’s display piece.
 
Features:
• era: c.1900–1920
• origin: United Kingdom (Lechlade, Gloucestershire)
• embossing: “NOT TO BE TAKEN” on side panel
• label: “FLY & MAGGOT OILS – G.A. Davis, Agricultural Chemist, Lechlade”
• colour: Deep emerald green
• height: Approx. ~7 inches (see ruler in photos)
• base markings: “208” and diamond cartouche mould mark
• shape: Hexagonal poison-bottle form with ribbed sides
• lip: Tooled/finished early-machine-era lip
• rarity: Excellent example of labelled agricultural poison bottles
 
Construction / Materials:
• Machine-moulded British glass, typical of early 20th-century production
• Distinctive ribbed poison warning pattern on both long sides
• Thick-walled construction for chemical storage
• Surviving period label adds strong provenance and display value
 
Condition:
Very good antique condition. Minor scuffs and light internal haze expected for its age. Label is partially worn but highly legible and visually striking. No major chips or cracks observed. Displays exceptionally well.
 
Type:
Antique British poison / veterinary chemical bottle – agricultural chemist collectible.
 
A beautiful surviving example of a labelled British poison bottle with bold embossing and vibrant emerald glass — perfect for collectors of antique chemist bottles, poison bottles, agricultural ephemera, or early veterinary medical history.