Knife grinder, Paris, France, 1875-1885

Made:
1875-1885 in Paris
maker:
Collin et Compagnie
Knife grinder, mahogany base, winding mechanism steel and brass

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Knife grinder, mahogany base, winding mechanism steel and brass
Science Museum Group Collection
© The Board of Trustees of the Science Museum

Knife grinder, mahogany base, winding mechanism steel and brass, sharpening material leather, by Collin of Paris, from Charriere, Collin and Gentile collection, with accessories, c. 1880

The leather strops of this machine are used to polish the knife blades such as those used in surgery. The knife is placed in the steel holder at the top and when the handle is turned the leather strops rotate against the knife’s edge. This is the final stage in knife sharpening. It is important that knives are sharp for surgery so they are effective when used. The drawer contains a number of accessories to maintain and adjust the machine.

Details

Category:
Surgery
Collection:
Sir Henry Wellcome's Museum Collection
Object Number:
A606309
Materials:
mahogany (wood), steel (metal), brass (copper, zinc alloy), leather and complete
Measurements:
overall: 115 mm x 320 mm x 294 mm, 2.462 kg
type:
knife grinder
credit:
Drouot