2014
This is probably the last survival of an 18th century apothecaries' breath-freshening tablet. Though they also seem to have had other uses too; John Quincy's 'Complete English Dispensary' of 1742 suggests making a suppository for children from that "most commonly what the Confectioners sell by the Name of a Violet Comfit. They are first dipped in Oil or just rubbed over with a little Butter to ease their Passage."
The flavouring agent (as in the receipt below) is not traditionally violet flowers, but the similar-smelling 'Orris' root of flowers of the iris family.
Original Receipt from 'Cyclopedia of Practical Receipts', 1891VIOLET LOZENGES
Rx
Orris powder 1 ounce
Gum Arabic 1 ounce
White sugar 2 pounds
Make into a thick paste with the following
Rx
Cochineal 1 drachm
Water 1 quart
Macerate for two days
Morning Post - Tuesday 22 March 1881