Roller with four independently moving rubber sections, in original carton, made by Doppel and Punkt ('Doppel-Punkt-Roller'), 1921-1940, German(?)

Four independently moving rubber sections with a wooden handle at each end comprise this massaging device. It was made by German company Doppel and Punkt. Masseurs held the handles in either hand and rolled the device over the body, much like using a rolling pin. Each rubber section has a complex pattern of ridges and suckers to massage the skin. Massage is an ancient activity practised by medical professionals and non-professionals to relieve pain and help relax the body.