Lancet with metal handlefrom set of cased surgical instruments, Persian, 18th century.
The lancet in the foreground of the image has a large metal blade measuring 65 mm long. Lancets were used in bloodletting – a once popular universal treatment for a range of health problems. The high degree of decoration on the instruments, all from the same set, suggests that they probably belonged to a physician serving a wealthy family. It is shown here with other instruments from the same set (A642946/3, A642946/6, A642946/9).
Scissors with metal handles from set of cased surgical instruments, Persian, 18th century.
The handles of the scissors fold out from the highly decorated brass rods. They are still very sharp. The level of decoration indicates they probably belonged to a physician serving a wealthy family. It is shown here with other surgical instruments from the same set (A642946/1, A642946/6, A642946/9).
Knife with ram's head handle from set of cased surgical instruments, Persian, 18th century.
This ornate brass knife would have been used during operations, possibly to cut tissues prior to limb amputations. The handle features the head of a two-horned golden ram. The level of decoration indicates it probably belonged to a physician serving a wealthy family. it is shown here with others from the same set (A642946/1, A642946/3, A642946/9).
Knife with ivory handle from set of cased surgical instruments, Persian, 18th century.
Measuring just less than 250 mm, this knife is made from steel and ivory or bone. A lion bearing its teeth has been carved on the top of the cow hide patterned handle. The level of decoration indicates it probably belonged to a physician serving a wealthy family. It is shown here with other instruments from the same set (A642946/1, A642946/3, A642946/6).