

Forceps, obstetrical, Palfyn, steel and wood, two separate sections, possibly a model
Jan Palfijin (1650-1730), or Palfyn, introduced these obstetrical forceps in 1716. They aided difficult childbirths. The spoons or ‘iron hands’ as he called them, gripped the baby’s head. They could be used separately or tied together.
This was one of many designs produced from the early 1700s onwards.
Details
- Category:
- Obstetrics, Gynaecology & Contraception
- Collection:
- Sir Henry Wellcome's Museum Collection
- Object Number:
- A615661
- type:
- obstetrical forceps