The Science and Art of Medicine

 

On Display

Anaesthetic inhalation ampoules, 1935-1949.

These crushable ampoules contain chloroform and are called �Brisettes�. They are composed of glass with a protective wrapping of gauze and cotton wool and were made by Macfarlan and Co., Edinburgh and London, for use in midwifery. Billings and Sons L

 
Stem pessaries, c 1930.

This particular straight stem pessary (illustrated in the top row on the far right) is made out of glass. Stem pessaries are intra-uterine devices.

 
Marine contraceptive sponge and tampon, 1920-1960.

This item is illustrated on the far left and is a marine sponge, for use as vaginal pessary, and was used by a Dr. Henson, English. When this was acquired it was noted that Dr Henson �thinks it the best method�. The other objects in the image are, le

 
Spermicidal pessaries, ointment and jelly, early 20th century.

This item is illustrated in the centre of the middle row and is an original carton containing 12 pessaries. They are of the �Prorace� brand and were supplied by John Bell and Croyden Ltd., London. The other objects in this image are as follows. Botto

 
'Omega Spray' vaginal douche, 1900-1940.

This is a vaginal douche and it is made out of rubber and vulcanite. This type of apparatus is used to force water or another solution into the vaginal cavity to flush away vaginal discharge or other contents. Douching is neither a contraceptive, nor

 
Two iron chastity belts, c 16th century.

This iron chastity belt is decorated with a flower design and a heart pierced with arrows. The padlock that is associated with it is not the original one.

 
Part of an obstetrical instrument set, English, 1851-1900.

This set consists of the following instruments in a chamois leather bag: 3 sets of forceps, 2 perforators, 1 blunt hook, 1 crotchet, 1 combined hook and crotchet, 1 trocar, and 1 pair of bone cutters

 
Netsuke showing a man applying moxa, Japanese, late 18th century.

A wooden figure of a man giving himself moxibustion treatment - burning herbs on or near the skin. The black spot on his leg represents the smouldering herb. The figure is signed Miwa with Kakihan.

 
Moxa caps, Japanese, 1980-1985.

A packet of moxa caps, designed to be placed on the heads of acupuncture needles. In Traditional Chinese Medicine, herbs are burnt in the cap, and the heat from the burning herbs travels through the acupuncture needle into the body.

 
Box containing three graded cupping glasses, Japanese, 1980-1990.

A cupping kit with three different sized cupping glasses. Cupping sets are used in Traditional Chinese Medicine to stimulate the flow of qi energy. The glass cup is placed on the skin and then air is drawn out with the metal pump.