King George V's steam cabinet
- Made:
- 1936 in United Kingdom
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Buy this image as a print
BuyLicense this image for commercial use at Science and Society Picture Library
LicenseKing George V's steam cabinet, 1936
Science Museum Group Collection
© The Board of Trustees of the Science Museum
King George V's steam cabinet, 1936
Science Museum Group Collection
© The Board of Trustees of the Science Museum
King George V's steam cabinet, 1936. Reassembled after dismantling from the swimming pool area at Buckingham Palace. In use until 1970.
This steam bath was used at the swimming pool at Buckingham Palace, the London home of the British Royal family. The cabinet acts like a miniature sauna in which the body of the user is encased, with their head outside at the top. The steam causes the person to sweat, which was believed to remove toxins from the body, and the heat helped to relieve joint and muscle pain. This cabinet is believed to have been purchased by King George V (1865-1936), who experienced by ill-health throughout his reign. It was in use at the palace until 1970.
Details
- Category:
- Public Health & Hygiene
- Object Number:
- 2006-4
- Materials:
- wood
- Measurements:
-
overall: 1725 mm x 800 mm x 920 mm,
- type:
- steam cabinet
- credit:
- Donated by Betty Sharps, in memory of her husband Wallace Sharps. 1927-2005.
