[Apothecaries in Dowai at the beginning of the 18th century]

This article presents the rules and regulations governing the Corporation of Apothecaries in Douai at the beginning of the 18th century. The official statutes (ordonnances politiques) were drawn up by the municipal magistrates (échevins) shortly after Douai was annexed by France. They define the organisation of the training of candidates for the profession, the exams they had to take and the financial contributions that were due. They mention their relationship with doctors, surgeons and religious communities as well as their dealings with suppliers, retail and wholesale druggists and herbalists. Their widows'rights were guaranteed. A register, which gives summary accounts of the activities of the Corporation, shows how the rules were observed.