Draper-type obstetrical forceps, London, 1870-1885

Forceps, obstetrical, Draper, steel and ebony, by Savigny and Co. of London, 1870-1885

Obstetrical forceps were inserted into the mother’s pelvis and gripped a baby’s head during difficult childbirths. These are small, portable and made from nickel-plated steel with wooden handles.

They were invented by W. Draper in the 1870s. The blades of the forceps could be folded inside one another, inserted as one and used as a lever. The forceps could then be opened once inserted. Draper claimed the mother would feel no discomfort.