Parturition (birthing) chair

Made:
1601-1700 in Europe
Parturition chair, folding and adjustable, European

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Parturition chair, folding and adjustable, European
Science Museum Group Collection
© The Board of Trustees of the Science Museum

Parturition chair, folding and adjustable, European, 17th century

Parturition or birthing chairs supported the mother while in labour. The arm and foot rests on this wooden chair can be moved for the mother’s comfort. The seat is shaped to allow access during childbirth and provide a clear route for the baby to emerge. The chair can also be folded down to convert into a bed or an operating table. This ornately carved example may be French, but the use of hand rests was a German innovation. Many parturition chairs were family heirlooms and passed through generations. Birthing chairs are still used in some countries.

Details

Category:
Obstetrics, Gynaecology & Contraception
Collection:
Sir Henry Wellcome's Museum Collection
Object Number:
A602128
Materials:
walnut, carved, fittings, iron and pin straps, linen
Measurements:
overall: 1440 mm x 745 mm x 1540 mm, 21 kg
wings recoiled, no legs: 1440 mm x 745 mm x 600 mm,
wings extended, no legs: 1440 mm x 745 mm x 910 mm,
legs extended, wings recoiled: 1440 mm x 1010 mm x 1060 mm,
back legs extended: 1440 mm x 745 mm x 1540 mm,
type:
parturition chair
credit:
Loan, Wellcome Trust

Parts