Amussat type intra-uterine dilator with syringe for injection. Made by Collin, Paris, France, c. 1870. From the Charriere, Collin and Gentile collection

Instruments such as this dilated (widened) the cervix. This was usually as part of a diagnostic investigation or to assist medical treatment. The dilator is made of steel and ebony. Its central syringe device allowed intrauterine injection. Dilation was believed to be therapeutic in some conditions. Many such instruments were developed from the mid-1800s.

This fine example was manufactured by Collin of Paris, France.