Amputation knife, Germany, 1701-1800
The curved shape of this amputation knife was common in the early 1700s. Amputation knives became straighter once the practice of leaving a flap of skin to cover the limb stump became the preferred amputation method. Ebony was a common material for handles as it is a hard-wearing wood. This knife was probably made by Eberle in Germany, as indicated by the inscription on the silver blade.
Object number:
A622731
Related Themes and Topics
Glossary:
Glossary: amputation knife
A broad-bladed knife used primarily for cutting large muscles during major amputations of limbs
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.