White 'fish kettle' steriliser, England, 1910-1950

White enamelled iron sterilizer 'fish kettle', with handles and lid, English, 1910-1950

This item was used to make instruments germ-free by boiling with water for ten minutes. It was used in surgery as a simple, cheaper alternative to a steriliser. It was a standard item in many hospitals. The long, shallow, enamelled iron pan is called a ‘fish kettle’ as it is can also be used to cook, bake or roast fish. The enamel layer makes it easy to wash out after use.