Barber's chair modified for dental extractions, England, 1701-1800
This barber's chair from the 1700s has been modified for dental extractions. This is unsurprising. Barbers during this era routinely performed operations such as dental extraction and bloodletting. They were known as ‘Barber-surgeons’. The solid wooden chair is made from English ash and elm. It encouraged the patient to lean back. This made access easier for the barber. The neck rest has been added to support the head while he operated.
Object number:
1981-2215
Related Themes and Topics
Glossary:
Glossary: dentist's chair
Dentist's chairs are deeply reclining chairs to allow the dentist easy access to the patient's mouth. The reclining position adjusts as well as the overall height of the chair. Associated with the chair are usually a variety of dental equipment, often including a small tap and sink for the patient to rinse his or her mouth.
Glossary: dentistry
The study, treatment and management of diseases affecting the mouth, jaws, gums, teeth and their supporting tissues.
Glossary: barber's chair
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