Glass bottles that held liquid medications in the early twentieth century were not considered special, at least not at the time. They held all sorts of fluids; some that helped, and others that were no more than placebos. These days the containers are highly prized by some antiques enthusiasts and decorators. They can be used for display in many stylish and impressive ways. Consider these ideas for displaying a collection, and create a gorgeous exhibit in your home.
Arrange Them on Glass Shelves in a Window
Vintage medicine bottles are excellent sun catchers. When displaying a collection, consider mounting glass shelves in front of a kitchen window. The window can still be opened, but it will have to be opened with care. Arrange them according to color, and do not place them too close together. Also, arrange a few vertically instead of just upright for an unexpected and a more interesting look.
Display a Collection of Vintage Medicine Bottles on a Stylish Mirror
Another fantastic method of displaying a collection of vintage medicine bottles is with an antique wall mirror. Choose a stylish vintage mirror with beveled edges instead of a frame. Arrange your favorites on the mirror. Place one or two down lying down in the front of the display. It will break up the vertical lines, and those in the back will be easier to see.
Use a Few as Bud Vases
Vintage medicine bottles make lovely bud vases. When displaying a collection, place live cuttings in a two or three of them along with enough water to sustain them for a few days. Consider white daisies with sunny yellow centers, wild violets or asters with delicate fringed petals. The display will look amazing, and they will lend a touch of cottage style to your kitchen or wherever you choose to show them off.
Hang Rustic Wood Shelving for Displaying Your Collection
Rustic wood shelving is ideal for displaying antiques, and medicine bottles are no exception. They look fantastic when displayed on reclaimed wood or raw wood with some of the bark still attached. A single shelf above a kitchen doorway would look phenomenal. Check them often to make sure that they have not shifted toward the edge of the shelving. When placed above doorways they tend to vibrate and move little by little. No matter where they are displayed, apply a little poster putty beneath each one to keep them firmly in place.
Source: Professional Home Decorating Experience