Carl,
It looks like a pharmaceutical ampule, in which case it would probably have
been used to maintain a drug in sterile condition during shipping.  The
ampule would probably have been prepared and used approximately as follows 
In a laboratory, a glass tube would be sealed at one end at high
temperature.  After cooling, the drug would have been added aseptically. 
Then with the ampule held vertically, the open top end would have been heat
sealed.  (Additional steps would be needed to prevent the glass from
breaking during the process.)  After receiving the ampule, the recipient
(probably a physician) would make a file mark at one of the tapered ends,
break off that end, and remove the fluid  with a hypodermic syringe for
injecting.  The reddish brown color may be the original color, because
oxidation would be inhibited in the ampule, but the solution may also have
deteriorated over time and discolored.  
Allen

> [Original Message]
> From: Carl Steen <[log in to unmask]>
> To: <[log in to unmask]>
> Date: 2/26/2008 2:01:34 PM
> Subject: Artifact ID
>
> I found this item in a mid 20th century context. Any ideas? Image at:
>
> http://38ch69.com/What%20page.html
>
> Thanks
> Carl Steen
>
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