![](https://coimages.sciencemuseumgroup.org.uk/416/316/large_thumbnail_e2019_0273_0001__0003_.jpg)
![Iron divan crutch with concealed dagger, Persian(?)](https://coimages.sciencemuseumgroup.org.uk/394/561/small_thumbnail_smg00157824.jpg)
![Iron divan crutch with concealed dagger, Persian(?)](https://coimages.sciencemuseumgroup.org.uk/17/818/small_thumbnail_a196265.jpg)
Iron divan crutch with concealed dagger, Persian(?), 19th century
This iron crutch both supported the body and aided a person getting up from lying on a divan couch. It is thought to have originated in Persia (modern day Iran). The crutch also had an alternative, more sinister use. Hidden inside the stem is a sharp, thin dagger which can be accessed by twisting the handle and sliding the blade out.
Details
- Category:
- Orthopaedics
- Collection:
- Sir Henry Wellcome's Museum Collection
- Object Number:
- A196265
- Materials:
- iron
- Measurements:
-
overall: 640 mm x 190 mm x 24 mm, .43kg
- type:
- crutches
- credit:
- Wellcome Trust (Purchased from Stevens)