Earthenware beetle trap, London, England, 1851-1900

Made:
1851-1900 in London
maker:
Beetle Trap Company
Earthenware beetle trap, English, 1851-1900

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Earthenware beetle trap, English, 1851-1900
Science Museum Group Collection
© The Board of Trustees of the Science Museum

Earthenware beetle trap, English, 1851-1900

Insects have long been seen as a nuisance – if not a health hazard – within the home and in the workplace. The crowded and dirty urban environment of Britain in the 1800s provided them with ideal conditions in which to live and breed.

This insect trap, based on an ancient design, provided some defence. Encouraged by food placed within the trap, beetles and other insects would climb up the ridged sides of the trap and fall into the hole in the centre. Here they would become trapped. As the inside is smooth, they would not be able to climb out again.

Details

Category:
Public Health & Hygiene
Collection:
Sir Henry Wellcome's Museum Collection
Object Number:
A634769
Materials:
earthenware and complete
Measurements:
overall: 67 mm 235 mm, 1.014 kg
type:
insect trap