Forceps, Richet, steel and brass, chromium-plated and gilt, by Collin of Paris, from Charriere, Collin and Gentile collection, c. 1870

These forceps were used to grip growths in the uterus and can be held in position by means of a mechanism on the handle. Richet was a French doctor and it was not uncommon for instrument makers to improve and invent new objects – which then carried their name. This item was purchased when the surgical instrument makers, Charrière, Collin and Gentile, sold their collection in 1978.