Obstetrical forceps, Norway, 1801-1900

Forceps, obstetrical, brass, Norwegian, 19th century. These forceps are attributed as Sandborg-Vedeler’s designs.

Obstetrical forceps grip and help rotate the baby’s head during difficult labour. The curved blades of the forceps fit the curve of the head as well as the mother’s birth canal. Obstetrical forceps were originally the preserve of a few secret individuals. They were introduced to the public in the early 1700s, with many variations and gradually found widespread use. This pair is made from steel, with the handle shaped for the physician’s hand. The forceps were bought from a private collector in Oslo, Norway in September 1929.