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LicenseSpeculum, vaginal, steel, European, possibly French, 1600-1800
Science Museum Group Collection
© The Board of Trustees of the Science Museum
Speculum, vaginal, steel, European, possibly French, 1600-1800
A speculum is used by a gynaecologist during examinations and can help diagnose genito-urinary diseases. It is also employed in related surgical procedures. The speculum is inserted into the vagina. It can then be opened as the screw mechanism rotates to expand the distance between the blades. Variations of this gynaecological instrument are still used.
The speculum came from the private collection of Dr Noel Hamonic (active 1850-1928). It was sold to Henry Wellcome by Hamonic’s sons in the summer of 1828 for just over £5,000. The collection consisted mostly of surgical instruments and pharmacy ware.
Details
- Category:
- Clinical Diagnosis
- Collection:
- Sir Henry Wellcome's Museum Collection
- Object Number:
- A121430
- Materials:
- steel
- Measurements:
-
overall: 242 mm x 79 mm x 78 mm, .22kg
- type:
- vaginal speculum
- credit:
- Hamonic Collection
