Ivory massager, Europe, 1871-1930
Made from ivory, this type of massager is known as a roulette. The two different ends, one ridged and one made up of three independently rotating balls, give different sensations to the body. The massager would have been purchased from a chemist and used at home, possibly with oils. Massage is an ancient activity practised by medical professionals and non-professionals alike across a range of different medical traditions. As well as being a means of healing and relieving pain, it also helps people to feel relaxed.
Object number:
A161658
Related Themes and Topics
Glossary:
Glossary: massage
The rubbing or kneading of parts of the body especially to aid circulation, relax the muscles, or provide sensual stimulation.
Glossary: massager
Instrument used to give or accentuate impact of massage.