Bow frame amputation saw, Europe, 1575-1585
This amputation saw has an elaborate handle design which ends in a griffin’s head – the griffin being a mythological creature which has the head and wings of an eagle and the body of a lion. The level of decoration is typical of the period. Unfortunately, such decorative features provided a good environment in which germs could thrive.
Object number:
A135416
Related Themes and Topics
Glossary:
Glossary: amputation saw
Saw used for amputation. These tend to be instruments from the past, and were in common usage from c. 1500-1940 in Europe.
Glossary: amputation
Removal of part of, or a whole limb by surgery. Used to control pain or the spread of disease in the affected limb.