Vintage sterilized bandage box Pratex 1950s laboratories

AFW - Antique France Worldwide

Visual Description

This old box of sterilized bandages, from the brand "Bande Pratex", features a cylindrical paper packaging with a slightly yellowed appearance, typical of mid-20th century medical packaging. The front of the box displays a clear print in blue, red, and black, with a red cross illustration surmounted by a hunting horn, the brand's distinctive emblem. The main inscriptions, perfectly legible, indicate "LABORATOIRES PANSEMENTS STÉRILISÉS" (STERILIZED BANDAGES LABORATORIES), "BANDE PRATEX", as well as mentions of sterilization by autoclave at 135°, the presence of two selvages, and recommended medical uses.

The graphic design, with its period fonts and red wavy borders, clearly evokes the 1950s. The mention "Marque déposée" (Registered trademark) appears below the logo. A blue insert specifies: "Pour accidents, fractures, hémorragies. Se lave et ne s'effile pas. Largeur 7 cm." (For accidents, fractures, hemorrhages. Washable and non-fraying. Width 7 cm.) The entire packaging is in good apparent condition, with no visible tears, and some creases and marks of age on the paper surface, testifying to its vintage authenticity.

The visible side shows no modern logos or barcodes, which confirms the object's age. The box is closed, the original content appears intact, and the wrapping paper hints at the shape of the bandage roll inside. The main colors are cream (paper), dark blue (inserts and text), bright red (decoration and logo), and black (secondary text).

The typography used, as well as the layout, adhere to the graphic standards of French medical supplies of the 1950s. The object has a strong evocative power, recalling period pharmacies and first-aid kits.

Condition

Used item, sold as is. The packaging shows some signs of time (creases, slight marks on the paper), with no major tears or stains visible on the shown side. No content is visible, the box appears unopened.

Did you know? Autoclave sterilization, mentioned on this box, is a method used in the medical sector since the late 19th century, allowing all germs to be eliminated by pressurized steam. "Pratex" medical bandages were common in French pharmacies from the 1950s to the 1970s, recognized for their strength and ease of maintenance.

AFW Reassurance

Careful packaging and fast shipping ensured by a professional seller specializing in antique and vintage items.

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