Larger Image
Figure 25.—Bloodletting manikin.(NMHT 243033 [M-10288]; SI photo 76-13536.)
Photograph numbers are labeled “BW” for black and white negative and “CS” for color slide. (Copies of photographs or slides may be purchased through the Office of Printing and Photographic Services, Smithsonian Institution, Washington, D.C. 20560.) Abbreviations for dimensions of objects are as follows: D = diameter; L = length; W = width; H = height.
Instruments within each group are arranged chronologically as accessioned by the museum.
Phlebotomy
Flint and Thumb Lancets
Flint lancets (4). Pieces of flint used to let blood by native doctors in Alaska in the 1880s. Donated by William J. Fisher late 19th century. L 22 mm, 35 mm, 43 mm, 50 mm. Anthropology vol. 30, catalog no. 127758. Neg. 73-4208 (BW, CS). (Figure30.)
Thumb lancet, 19th century. Typical thumb lancet with steel blade and tortoise shell shield, engraved with a crown and “Evans/Old Change/London” (manufacturer). Purchased 1898. Shield: L 56 mm. Blade: L 50 mm. Anthropology vol. 30, catalog no. 143079.
Flint lancet. “Indian scarificator” collected by the Section of Ethnology of the Smithsonian 1902. L 44 mm. Anthropology vol. 30, catalog no. 143166.
Thumb lancets (4) with case, 19th century. Lancets are engraved “S. Maw” (manufacturer). The case is made of cardboard covered with brown leather and has four compartments. Used by the donor’s father while a missionary in Samoa in the 1830s. Donated in 1936 by the Rev. Robert G. Harbutt. Lancets: L 55 mm. Case: L 60 mm, W 28 mm, H 10 mm. Neg. 73-4230 (BW) four lancets with case; negs. 73-4226, 73-4227, 73-4228, 73-4229 (BW & CS), individual lancets. NMHT 139980 (M-4151). (Figure38.)
Thumb lancets (2), 19th century. Lancets are typical 19th century thumb lancets. Shell shields are broken. Second lancet is engraved with a crown denoting British manufacture. Owned by S. K. Jennings of Baltimore (1771-1854). Donated by the Medical and Chirurgical Faculty of Maryland 1976. First lancet: L 54 mm; L of blade 46 mm. Second lancet: L 58 mm; L of blade 42 mm. NMHT 302606.062.
Thumb lancets (2), 19th century. Shell shields. One shell is marked “A. L. Hernstein.” Purchased 1976. First lancet: L 60 mm. Second lancet: L 70 mm. NMHT 1977.0789.
Bloodletting knife, 19th century. Handle is cylindrical and made of carved wood, which has been turned, a brass ring, and an ivory tip with a hole bored through it. Blade is double beveled and engraved “Rodgers/Cutlers to Her Majesty,” which indicates that the piece is Victorian. It could have been used for many purposes, including bloodletting. Purchased 1976. L 129 mm; L of blade 30 mm. Neg. 76-76108 (BW).NMHT321697.39.
Thumb lancets in cases (8), 19th century. Seven of the cases have silver trimming and are closed by a hinged cap. These are similar in appearance to cigarette lighters. The first case, made of tortoise shell, contains four thumb lancets (with tortoise shell sheaths). Two blades are marked “Savigny & Co.,” two are marked with a cross on top of crown symbol. The second case is made of mother-of-pearl carved with an intricate floral design. It has space for four lancets but contains only one lancet marked “Thompson” on the inner side of the shell cover, and a silver pincers. The scroll initials “J H” appear on the side of the case. The third case is silver, decorated with a floral relief, and contains two lancets. The fourth case is made of shagreen and contains six lancets, three engraved “Savigny” and one “Morgan.” The fifth case is made of shagreen. One blade is inscribed “STODART.” Blades are rusted. The sixth case is made of shagreen. It contains one shell-covered lancet of a possible six. The blade is marked Paris. “J. P. Honard” is engraved on the silver top of the case. The seventh case is made of shagreen. It contains two lancets, one with a pearl shield and one with a shell shield. On the blade of the shell encased lancet is inscribed “B. Radford, 9 Patrick St. Conn.” The last case is made of leather, which is worn. It contains one shell-encased lancet. The blade is marked “Gouldig & Ford, N.Y.” Purchased 1976. Case one: L 70 mm, W 36 mm. Case two: L 69 mm, W 33 mm. Case three: L 65 mm, W 30 mm. Case four: L 74 mm, W 50 mm. Case five: L 71 mm, W 33 mm. Case six: L 75 mm, W 43 mm. Case seven: L 68 mm, W 32 mm. Case eight: L 75 mm, W 17 mm. Neg. 76-9116 (BW). NMHT 1977-0789. (Figure5.)
Spring Lancets
Note: Lancets are measured to the tip of the casing rather than to the tip of the blade. The blade length depends upon the setting, and varies from an additional 8 to 13 mm.
Spring lancet, 19th century. Brass Knob end lancet with brass lever release. Purchased 1898. L 42 mm, W 20 mm. Anthropology vol. 30, catalog no. 143078.
Spring lancets (2) with case, 19th century. One lancet is plain with a brass lever release. Second lancet is brass with a steel lever release and has a floral design on the front and back panels. There are three settings for the height of the blade instead of the usual two. Blade is broken off. Case is square and made of wood covered with black leather and lined with rose plush. It is stamped “Braumiller, jun.” Wood is broken. Leather and plush are badly torn. Donated by George B. Roth 1925. Both lancets: L 44 mm, W 20 mm. Case: L 62 mm, W 64 mm, H 20 mm. NMHT 88734 (M-2099).
Spring lancet, patent model, 1857. Lancet has a cupped end instead of the usual knob end. According to analysis by the Conservation Laboratory, the lancet is made of silver-copper alloy. A screw on the back regulates the depth of cut by moving the spring mechanism back and forth inside the outer casing. Patented by James W. W. Gordon (U.S. patent 16479). Transferred from the U.S. Patent Office 1926. L 36 mm, W 25 mm, H 6 mm. Neg. 73-10318 (BW) and 73-116 (CS), front view; 73-10319 (BW) and 73-11147 (CS), back view. NMHT 89797 (M-4298). (Figures48,49.)
Spring lancet, 19th century. Lancet is brass and has a brass lever release. It is engraved with the initials “A. F.” Donor claimed it was a 17th-century import from Wales, but it appears to be a standard 19th century lancet. Donated by Edward Pryor 1930. L 45 mm, W 19 mm. Neg. 73-4235 (BW & CS). NMHT 112827 (M-2995). (Figure105.)
Spring lancet, 19th century. Lancet is brass with a brass lever release. Engraved “Wiegand & Snowden/Philadelphia” (manufacturer). Donated by Dr. H. S. West 1934. L 44 mm, W 22 mm. NMHT 131386 (M-3636).
Spring lancet with case, 19th century. Standard 19th century lancet with typical case made of wood, covered with brown leather and lined with chamois. Case closes by a latch, and is stamped “Traunichtessticht,” which translates, “Do not trust, it stabs.” Many 19th century cases were stamped with this motto. Donated by Fred G. Orsinger 1937. Lancet: L 41 mm, W 20 mm. Case: L 71 mm, W 35 mm, H 18 mm. Neg. 73-4237 (BW & CS), without case. NMHT 145365 (M-4510).
Spring lancet blade with case, 19th century. The case is made of wood and covered with red paper, and has “F D” stamped on the bottom. A piece of paper with the date “1877” is affixed to the top of the case. This is the date that the donor received the blade from his mother, daughter of the owner, Dr. Joseph S. Dogan (1793-1870), who practiced as a country doctor in South Carolina. Donated by B. F. Arthur 1937. Blade: L 42 mm. Case: L 64 mm, W 20 mm, H 15 mm. NMHT 145290 (M-4513).
Note: In the Wellcome Museum there are two spring lancets in a case. (R 3689/1936) One of these is marked “F. D.” and the other “Fischer Peter,” which may indicate that this is the name of the maker of all instruments so marked. The Wellcome instruments were part of the Hamonic Collections. Dr. Hamonic listed them as 18th century instruments. Another lancet that appears to be veterinary, because of its size, is stamped “P. Fischer” (Wellcome 13516). Note that several items in this catalog are so marked.
Spring lancet with case, late 19th-early 20th century. Tiemann & Co.’s spring lancet, a modified lancet sold by George Tiemann & Co. and advertised in the Tiemann catalogs of 1879 and 1889. Lancet is made of German silver and has a domed rather than a knob end. It is stamped “Tiemann” on the back panel. Release lever is a short bar across the top. Leather case is lined in red plush and has a partition in which four extra lancet blades are contained. Lancet was one of various instruments in a medical bag used by Dr. Augustus Stabler of Brighton, Maryland, who practiced from 1889 to 1914. Donated by Sidney Snowden Stabler 1942. Lancet: L 34 mm, W 16 mm. Case: L 62 mm, W 40 mm, H 23 mm. Neg. 73-5644 (BW). NMHT 163863 (M-5141). (Figure47.)
Spring lancet with case, 19th century. Brass lancet with brown leather case. Lancet was a part of the Squibb Ancient Pharmacy, a collection of medical and pharmaceutical objects brought by E. Squibb and Sons to the United States in 1932. On deposit from the American Pharmaceutical Association 1945. Lancet: L 40 mm, W 19 mm. Case: L 70 mm, W 38 mm, H 24 mm. NMHT 170211 (M-6385).
Spring lancets (2) with case, 19th century. Lancets are made of brass and have steel lever releases. They are engraved front and back with a floral pattern. Tip of the blade of one of the lancets is broken. Case is wood covered with red leather and is missing the top. Donated by the University of Pennsylvania 1959. First lancet: L 43 mm, W 21 mm. Second lancet: L 75 mm, W 49 mm, H 11 mm. NMHT 218383 (M-9260).
Spring lancet with case, 19th century. Brass lancet with brass lever release. Case is covered with red cloth and lined with black plush. Used by Dr. Samuel Fahnestock (1764-1836) or by his son, Dr. William Baker Fahnestock (1804-1886) of Pennsylvania. Donated by Capt. Henry Fahnestock MacComsey, U.S.N., and Dr. G. Horace Coshow 1968. Lancet: L 40 mm, W 20 mm. Case: L 74 mm, W 40 mm, H 26 mm. NMHT 280145 (M-12341).
Spring lancet with case, 19th century. Lancet has a steel lever release and is stamped “F. D.” on the back panel. Other lancets have been found with these initials but so far no manufacturer has been traced. Leather of case is damaged. Owned by Dr. Harry Friedenwald of Baltimore, Maryland (b. 1864). Donated by the Medical and Chirurgical Faculty of Maryland 1976. Lancet: L 40 mm, W 20 mm. Case: L 72 mm, W 34 mm, H 20 mm. NMHT 302606.008.
Spring lancet with case, 19th century. Brass spring lancet with a brass lever release. Case is stamped “Traunichtessticht” (see NMHT 145365 [M-4510]). Used by Dr. Wilbur Phelps, Baltimore, Maryland (1841-1922). Donated by the Medical and Chirurgical Faculty of Maryland 1976. Lancet: L 38 mm, W 34 mm. Case: L 71 mm, W 34 mm, H 17 mm. Neg. 76-7757 (BW & CS), compares lancet to a veterinary spring lancet. NMHT 302606.009. (Figure22.)
Spring lancet with case, 19th century. Brass spring lancet with a brass release. Case is covered with navy blue leather, lined with chamois, and stamped with a small flower and leaf design. Owned by Dr. Launcelot Jackes of Hancock, Maryland (b. late 18th century). Donated by the Medical and Chirurgical Faculty of Maryland 1976. Lancet: L 40 mm, W 22 mm. Case: L 66 mm, W 34 mm, H 20 mm. NMHT 302606.039.
Spring lancet with case, 19th century. Lancet and case are very similar to NMHT 302606.039. The case is more rounded on top, is covered with black leather, and bears the same floral motif. Lancet blade is broken. Owned by Dr. George Washington Crumm of Clearspring and Jefferson, Maryland (1811-1896). Donated by the Medical and Chirurgical Faculty of Maryland 1976. Lancet: L 42 mm, W 22 mm. Case: L 66 mm, W 38 mm, H 22 mm. NMHT 302606.056.
Spring lancet, 19th century. Brass lancet with steel lever release. Owned by Dr. Joseph Tate Smith of Baltimore, Maryland (1850-1930). Donated by the Medical and Chirurgical Faculty of Maryland 1976. Lancet: L 42 mm, W 20 mm. NMHT 302606.057.
Spring lancets (2) with case, 19th century. Wood case, covered with brown leather and lined with brown velvet, has space for two rectangular lancets. One brass lancet, knob end, does not belong with the set. It has a steel lever release and three settings for blade height. The rectangular lancet, also made of brass, with an iron lever release and three settings for the height of the blade, is unusual in that it is triggered by a slide catch on the facing side rather than by a lever on top. The set was owned by Dr. Charles W. Owen of Maryland (1823-1857). Donated by the Medical and Chirurgical Faculty of Maryland 1976. Rectangular lancet: L 50 mm, W 16 mm. Knob end lancet: L 42 mm, W 18 mm. Case: L 150 mm, W 34 mm, H 22 mm. NMHT 302606.058.
Spring lancet with case, 19th century. Lancet and case are similar to NMHT 302606.039. The leather of the case is torn and the lancet blade is broken. Donated by the Medical and Chirurgical Faculty of Maryland 1976. Lancet: L 42 mm, W 22 mm. Case: L 66 mm, W 38 mm, H 24 mm. NMHT 302606.061.
Spring lancet with case, 19th century. The Conservation Analytical Laboratory found the lancet to be made of a silver-copper alloy with an iron or steel lever release. It has a border around the top and along the edge and is marked “Reinhardt & Co/Balto.” Case is covered with black leather and lined in pink plush. It is decorated by a gold border and a small scroll motif. Donated by Harry L. Schrader 1972. Lancet: L 42 mm, W 21 mm. Case: L 68 mm, W 34 mm, H 20 mm. NMHT 302607 (M-14682).
Spring lancet with case, late 19th-early 20th century. Lancet is similar to the preceding lancet. It is made of white metal[B](probably silver-copper) and has a border decoration along the top and around the edge. Case, which is badly rotted from water damage, is a folding style case and is closed by a clasp. There is a pocket for extra blades. Donated by John and James Draper 1973. Lancet: L 42 mm, W 21 mm. Case: L 74 mm, W 40 mm, H 18 mm. NMHT 304826.067.
Spring lancet with case, late 19th-early 20th century. Brass knob end lancet with brass lever release. Case is covered with brown leather and lined with chamois. Case is stamped “Traunichtessticht” (See NMHT 145365 [M-4510]). Owned by Dr. F. L. Orsinger of Chicago (1852-1925). Donated by Dr. William Orsinger 1973. Lancet: L 43 mm, W 22 mm. Case: L 70 mm, W 30 mm, H 20 mm. Neg. 74-4088 (BW & CS); 76-13535 (BW), interior view of spring mechanism. NMHT 308730.10. (Figures7,39.)
Spring lancet with case, 19th century. Brass Lancet with steel lever release. Leather of case is water damaged and is stamped “Traunichtessticht.” Latch is missing. Donated by Peter H. Smith Jr., 1975 Lancet: L 50 mm, W 25 mm (w/ blade extended), H 15 mm. Case: L 75 mm, W 42 mm, H 23 mm. NMHT 316508.01.
Spring lancet with case, 18th-early 19th century. Wooden case has a hand-carved space for lancet. Lancet is brass and has an unusual boot shape. The short lever release operates a catch at the very top of the lancet casing. The large blade has a guard that is regulated by a screw on the side. Purchased 1976. Lancet: L 35 mm, W 24 mm. Case: L 68 mm, W 33 mm, H 20 mm. Neg. 76-9114 (BW). NMHT 316478. (Figure46.)
Spring lancet, late 18th-early 19th century. Unusually shaped large brass and steel spring lancet, nicely decorated and engraved with the name “M. A. Prizzi.” Lancet is set by a slide cocking lever on the facing side and released by another lever. A brass plate at the top of the lancet can be moved back and forth by a screw in order to regulate the depth of cut of the lancet blade. Lancet comes with a spare blade. Purchased 1975. Lancet: L 86 mm. Neg. 76-7763 (BW, CS). NMHT 320033.06. (Figure45.)
Spring lancet with case, 19th century. Lancet is brass with a steel lever release and has a zig-zag decoration on the front and back panels. Case is covered with brown leather and lined with chamois and has a small basket of flowers stamped on the top. Purchased 1976. Lancet: L 42 mm, W 19 mm. Case: L 71 mm. W 34 mm. H 19 mm. Neg. 73-4236 (BW & CS). NMHT 321636.01. (Figure6.)
Spring lancet, 19th century. Lancet is engraved “F. D.” on back (see NMHT 302606.008). Analysis by the Conservation Laboratory shows that the lancet is made of brass composed of 70% copper and 30% zinc plated with a tin-lead alloy. Most of the plating has been rubbed away. The blade, cocking lever, and release lever are of iron or steel. Purchased 1976. Lancet: L 43 mm. W 21 mm. NMHT 321636.02.
Spring lancet with case, 19th century. Lancet is brass and has a brass lever release. Engraved “Goulding/New York” (manufacturer). Case is made of wood, covered with black leather and lined with light brown plush. It has a tab closure. Lancet and case were not originally a set; the case was designed for a larger lancet. Donated by the American Pharmaceutical Association 1970. Lancet: L 40 mm, W 20 mm. Case: L 74 mm. W 38 mm. H 12 mm. NMHT 321641 (M-13060).
Spring lancet with case, late 19th century. Silver lancet with a button release and a border decorating the top and edge. Button release lancets were sold in the late 19th century for slightly more than lever release lancets. Analysis by the Conservation Laboratory shows that the silver is not sterling but a silver-copper alloy containing twice as much copper as sterling silver. The button release is made of ferrous metal plated with silver. The blade and cocking lever are also of ferrous metal. The case is made of wood, covered with brown leather and trimmed with gold leaf. It is closed by an ornate clasp made of ferrous metal plated with brass. Donated by the American Pharmaceutical Association 1970. Lancet: L 42 mm, W 22 mm. Case: L 73 mm, W 40 mm, H 11 mm. NMHT 321641 (M-13060.1).
Spring lancet with case, 19th century. Silver lancet with lever release described by seller as dating from 1800, although it is probably of a later date. Lancet has a border decoration,and the back plate is opened by a shell-design protuberance. The case is covered with brown leather with gold leaf edging, and is stamped “A. St.” Case is lined with rose plush below and white silk above. Lancet is engraved “Cotzand.” Purchased 1976. Lancet: L 42 mm, W 17 mm. Case: L 68 mm, W 37 mm, H 20 mm. Neg. 76-7752 (BW, CS). NMHT 321687.02. (Figure44.)
Spring lancet with case, late 19th century. Silver lancet with a button release and a border decorating the top and the edge. Mechanism is frozen. Purchased 1976. Lancet: L 40 mm. NMHT 321697.01.
Spring lancet, late 19th century. White metal including the blade, which may have been a replacement for the original. The blade is more highly polished than the case. The black case is worn so that an indistinct mark appears on its cover. It is lined with chamois. Lancet: L 41 mm, W 17 mm, blade extends 10 mm. Case: L 65 mm, W 38 mm. NMHT 1977.0789.13.
Spring lancet with case, 19th century. Brass lancet with steel lever release. Case is covered with brown leather and lined with chamois. Leather is torn and latch is missing. Owned by Dr. Launcelot Jackes of Hancock, Maryland (b. late 18th c.). Donated by the Medical and Chirurgical Faculty of Maryland 1976. Lancet: L 40 mm, W 20 mm. Case: L 72 mm, W 42 mm, H 24 mm. NMHT 302616.040.
Spring lancets (2) with case, late 18th-early 19th century. Pair of brass lancets in a hand-carved wooden case. First lancet has a steel lever release and is engraved with a zig-zag pattern and the initials “F. D.” Second lancet is shorter than usual and missing the lever release and cocking lever. Case has space cut for each lancet and an additional space for extra blades or a thumb lancet. Purchased 1976. First lancet: L 40 mm. Second lancet: L 30 mm. Case: L 84 mm, W 56 mm, H 17 mm. NMHT 321697.02.
Spring lancet, late 19th century. Brass decorated with flowers, has tulip and leaves on reverse side with iron blade and lever. Lancet: L 39 mm, W 21 mm. Case: L 65 mm, W 33 mm. NMHT 1977.0789.14.
Spring lancet, late 19th century. Brass case is unmarked. The leather case had a red lining and a top that slips off. Lancet: L 44 mm, W 18 mm. Case: L 77 mm, W 35 mm. NMHT 1977.0789.15.
Spring lancet, late 19th century. Brass case with unclear lettering “WIEGANL Phila Powten.” Leather case has red lining and closes with a hook. Lancet: L 41 mm, W 22 mm. Case: L 70 mm, W 33 mm. NMHT 1977.0789.9.
Spring lancet, late 19th century. Brass case. Leather case has a chamois lining and closed with a hook. An eagle on the cover is worn. Lancet: L 43 mm, W 19 mm. Case: L 70 mm, W 35 mm. NMHT 1977.0789.10.
Spring lancet, late 19th century. Light yellow brass case. Case is leather (worn) with a chamois lining and hook closure. Lancet: L 41 mm, W 20 mm. Case: L 71 mm, W 35 mm. NMHT 1977.0989.11.
Spring lancet, late 19th century. Brass case with small guard over blade. Cover on the back appears to be a replacement for the original. Crude wooden case is red and worn. Lancet: L 45 mm, W 33 mm. NMHT 1977.0789.12.
Spring lancet, late 19th century. Brass case with cover of the lancet missing. Leather case has a chamois lining and hook closure. Lancet: L 38 mm, W 20 mm. Case: L 70 mm, W 34 mm. NMHT 1977.0789.7.
Spring lancet, late 19th century. Lancet is of white metal including the blade. The leather case has a gold decoration around the edges. Lancet: L 41 mm, W 22 mm. Case: L 70 mm, W 36 mm. NMHT 1977.0789.8.
Note: For additional spring lancets, see “Cupping Sets” (NMHT 268719 [M-11878]) and “Related Artifacts” (NMHT 199536 [M-6689] and NMHT 285125 [M-12352]).
Bleeding Bowls
Bleeding bowl, after 1740. Pewter bowl with horizontally projecting handle. Handle is decorated with cut out tracery, a coat of arms, and the name of the London maker, John Foster. Bowl has graduated rings every 2 ounces from 2 to 16. Held byDivisionof Cultural History, Smithsonian Institution (Greenwood Collection). L 200 mm to tip of handle, D 132 mm, H 45 mm. Neg. 61166-C (BW). (Figure4.)
Barber’s basin, 18th century. Blue faience basin with green, red, and blue floral decoration. Used for shaving and probably for phlebotomy as well. Bowl is indented to fit against the neck. Purchased 1959. L 260 mm, W at indentation 173 mm, H 68 mm. Neg. 73-4220 (BW, CS). NMHT 225114 (M-9399).
Bleeding bowl. Circular bleeding bowl made of pewter and typical of the bowls used to collect and measure blood in the 18th century. Such bowls were no longer generally used in the 19th century. Bowl has a plain, flat, horizontally projecting handle and graduated circles marking every 4 ounces from 4 to 24. Purchased 1976. L 233 mm to tip of handle, D 166 mm, H 55 mm. NMHT 322691.01.
Bleeding bowl. Pewter bowl with a cut out tracery handle. Bowl has graduated markings every 2 ounces from 2 to 16. Purchased 1976. D 127 mm, H 64 mm. NMHT 322691.02.
Extra Blades and Cases
Spring lancet blades (2), 18th-19th century. Used by Dr. John Cooper, Easton, Pennsylvania, great-grandfather of the donor. Donated by the Rev. J. V. Cooper 1936. Blades: L 44 mm, W 14 mm. NMHT 139877 (M-4145).
Spring lancet case, 19th century. This case is unlike other lancet cases in the collection in that the top half is a cap which slips off. The bottom half opens lengthwise and has space for a lancet and two pockets for extra blades. Case, made of cardboard and covered with black leather, is lined in tan plush. Purchased 1963. Case: L 62 mm, W 32 mm, H 22 mm. NMHT 251481 (M-10463).
Spring lancet case, 1827. Case is handmade of wood, with fabric panels covered with glass on five sides. In the top panel, a spring lancet has been hand drawn in blue. The bottom panel contains several symbolic images and the motto, “Memento Mori.” The end panel has the name of the owner, “W. M. Bonwill’s/1827.” The case opens by a hinge and has space carved out for two knob end lancets.Pasted to the lid is a leather pocket containing two lancet blades of different sizes. The Smithsonian Institution also owns a matching toilet case, given by the same donor. Donated by the University ofPennsylvania1959. Case: L 87 mm, W 48 mm, H 18 mm. Neg. 73-5847, 73-5848, 73-5849, 73-5850 (BW, various views with toilet case)/73-7680 to 73-7693 (CS, various views with toilet case). NMHT 218383 (M-9261).
Spring lancet case, 19th century. Two part red leather case. Inner box has space for a knob end spring lancet and two spare blades. Box slides into an outer shell with a tab closure. Owned by Dr. Robert Moore (1764-1844), who served as President of the Medical and Chirurgical Faculty of Maryland from 1820 to 1826. Donated by the Medical and Chirurgical Faculty of Maryland 1976. Case: L 78 mm, W 50 mm, H 12 mm. NMHT 302606.054.
Cupping
Scarificators
Note: Height is measured to the top of the casing. The height may vary by a few millimeters because setting the depth of cut of the blades is accomplished by raising or lowering the bottom of the scarificator.
Scarificator, 12 blades, 19th century. Octagonal brass scarificator with blades arranged on two rods which cut in opposite directions. This is a standard English-American 19th c. scarificator. As is true of all scarificators, the blades and cocking lever are made of ferrous metal (iron or steel). Two small stars on one side indicate how the top and bottom of the scarificator fit together. Purchased 1898. L 46 mm, W 42 mm, H 30 mm. Anthropology vol. 30, catalog no. 143080.
Scarificator with case, 12 blades, 19th century. Standard scarificator with blades cutting in opposite directions. Case is wood covered with red leather, lined in purple plush and closed by a latch. On top of the case is an American eagle. Donated by Dr. D. H. Welling 1925. Scarificator: L 52 mm, W 46 mm, H 36 mm. Case: L 61 mm, W 56 mm, H 77 mm. NMHT 86124 (M-2087).Note: American eagles of this type were imprinted on many objects at the time of the Centennial (1876).
Scarificator, 12 blades, patent model, 1846. Patented by George Tiemann of New York (U.S. patent 4705). Engraved “Geo. Tieman[sic]/No. 63 Chatham Street/New York/March 1846.” The novel feature of the scarificator was the addition of an ebony handle in which a coiled spring was contained. See NMHT 254866 (M-10700), which is the same instrument as marketed by George Tiemann & Co. Transferred from the U.S. Patent Office 1926. Overall L 176 mm. Base: L 42 mm, W 42 mm, H 18 mm. Neg. 76-9115 (BW). NMHT 89797 (M-4289). (Figure76.)
Scarificator, 13 blades, patent model, 1847. Patented by Frederick M. Leypoldt of Philadelphia (U.S. Patent 5111). Scarificator is brass, octagonal with three rods containing 4, 5, and 4 blades respectively. Blades turn in same direction. The innovation consisted of a new arrangement of the cocking lever and spring. Engraved “F. Leypoldt/Philada.” Transferred from the U.S. Patent Office 1926. L 44 mm, W 44 mm, H 40 mm. Neg. 73-4213 (BW & CS). NMHT 89797 (M-4290). (Figure77.)
Scarificator, 10 blades, patent model, 1851. Patented byFrederickLeypoldt of Philadelphia (U.S. patent 8095). This is a flattened model of scarificator made of a copper-zinc-nickel alloy known as “nickel-silver,” or German silver. The innovation in this patent model was a flat lever extending from the side instead of the top, which fits into slots in two racks which move back and forth and turn the pinions of the blade rods. Blades cut in opposite directions. Transferred from the U.S. Patent Office 1926. L 42 mm, W 40 mm, H 16 mm. Neg. 76-9112 (BW). NMHT 89797 (M-4293). (Figure78.)
Scarificator, 12 blades, 19th century. Octagonal scarificator in which blades cut in the same direction. Donated by Dr. George B. Roth 1928. L 44 mm, W 40 mm, H 38 mm. Neg. 76-7744 (BW, CS). NMHT 99749 (M-2336). (Figure106.)
Scarificator, 12 blades, late 19th century. Octagonal scarificator; blades cut in opposite directions. Used by the donor’s father. Donated by Aida Doyle 1932. L 48 mm, W 42 mm, H 34 mm. NMHT 118000 (M-3182).
Scarificator, 10 blades, early 19th century. Octagonal scarificator with blades cutting in the same direction. Donated by H. S. West 1934. L 46 mm, W 44 mm, H 34 mm. NMHT 131386 (M-3635).
Scarificator, 16 blades, early 19th century. This scarificator is typical of Germanic manufacture during the late 18th and early 19th centuries. It is square, hand engraved, andhaspointed blades. Blades are arranged on three rods that turn in the same direction. Engraved “J. T./Wien.” Vienna was the center of earlyscarificatormanufacture.Scarificatorsaid by donor to date from 1806. Donated by the University of Pennsylvania 1959. L 35 mm, W 34 mm, H 39 mm. Neg. 73-4212 (BW, CS). NMHT 218383 (M-9257). (Figure60.)
Scarificator, 16 blades, 19th century. Square scarificator, made somewhat later than the previous one because the blades are no longer pointed. Donated by the University of Pennsylvania 1959. L 36 mm, W 36 mm, H 32 mm. NMHT 218383 (M-9258).
Scarificator, 16 blades, late 18th-early 19th century. Square scarificator. Donated by the University of Pennsylvania 1959. L 40 mm, W 30 mm, H 32 mm. Neg. 61130-B (BW). NMHT 218383 (M-9259).
Scarificator with case, 4 blades, 19th century. Small octagonal scarificator used for cutting the temples. Bottom of scarificator is engraved with an American eagle. Case is covered with navy blue leather, lined with purple plush, and closed by a latch. Purchased 1960. Scarificator: L 28 mm, W 26 mm, H 26 mm. Case: L 42 mm, W 40 mm, H 60 mm. Neg. 76-7745 (BW, CS). NMHT 233056 (M-9639). (Figure107.)
Scarificator, 12 blades, 19th century. This octagonal scarificator is significant in that it bears a French patent. Turning the large wing-shaped handle on the top of the instrument cocks the blades, and turning a small key on the side regulates the depth of cut of the blades. Blades cut in opposite directions. Scarificator engraved “Breveté, S.G.D. Gouv.”Purchased 1964. L 42 mm, W 38 mm, H 32 mm. NMHT 254866 (M-10695).
Scarificator with case, 12 blades, 19th century. This is the market version of Tiemann’s patent scarificator (NMHT 89797 [M-4289]), with a bone handle. Engraved “Geo. Tiemann/Patent/August 20/1846.” This scarificator was advertised as late as 1889. Purchased 1964. Scarificator: L 172 mm, W 45 mm, H 45 mm. Neg. 73-4237-D (CS). NMHT 254866 (M-10700).
Scarificator, 13 blades, 19th century. Octagonal scarificator with unusual number of blades arranged on three rods and cutting in the same direction. Purchased 1964. L 51 mm, W 46 mm, H 34 mm. NMHT 254866 (M-10706).
Scarificator with case, 10 blades, 19th century. Used by Mary Fueurstien Kuhn, who practiced as a midwife in Ohio and also cupped and bled people during the period 1850-1890. Scarificator was brought to the United States from Germany by Mrs. Kuhn’s father, who was a doctor. Blades cut in opposite directions. Case is covered in brown leather and lined in rose plush. Donated by Mrs. Arthur Peterman 1964. Scarificator: L 45 mm, W 42 mm, H 32 mm. Case: L 58 mm, W 55 mm, H 71 mm. NMHT 255254 (M10892).
Scarificator, 16 blades, late 18th-early 19th century. Square scarificator. Top cap has a scalloped edge. Blades appear to be pointed. Mechanism is frozen. Donated by Harry L. Schrader 1972. L 34 mm, W 34 mm, H 34 mm. NMHT 302607 (H-14681).
Scarificator, 16 blades, late 18th-early 19th century. Square scarificator. Mechanism is frozen. Donated by John and James Draper 1973. L 38 mm, W 35 mm, H 32 mm. NMHT 304826.066.
Scarificator with case, 12 blades, late 19th-early 20th century. Octagonal scarificator with blades cutting in opposite directions. Two stars are engraved on the top and the bottom of one side. Case is cardboard covered with leather. Owned by Dr. F. L. Orsinger of Chicago (1852-1925). Donated by Dr. William Orsinger 1973. Scarificator L 45 mm, W 40 mm, H 35 mm. Case L 54 mm, W 48 mm, H 80 mm. Neg 74-4089 (BW, CS). NMHT 308730.11.
Scarificator with case, 12 blades, 19th century. Octagonal scarificator with blades cutting in the same direction. There are two star markings on the top and the bottom of one side. Case is made of cardboard covered with black leather. Donated by Ada and Grace Abrahamson 1975. Scarificator: L 43 mm, W 40 mm, H 34 mm. Case: L 56 mm, W 47 mm, H 73 mm. NMHT 318916.01.
Scarificator, 13 blades, 1973. Unusual hand-made brass and iron scarificator, engraved with decoration and the name “Domenico Pica” and date “1793.” Blades are set on three rods of four, five, and four blades (see NMHT 254866 [M-10706]). The scarificator is octagonal but much taller than the standard octagonal model. Unlike all other scarificators in the collection, the bottom opens by a hinge, and a key on top raises and lowers the interior mechanism so as to regulate the depth of cut. Blades are cocked by a lever on top and released by a button on the side. Purchased 1975. L 50 mm, W 42 mm, H 60 mm. Neg. 76-7742 and 76-7743 (BW, CS). NMHT 320033.01. (Figure66.)
Note: The earliest marked scarificator known to the authors is one in the Wellcome Medical Collection (Wellcome number R 2.852/1930 C.H.M.), inscribed 1747. The case and blade are made entirely of iron or steel. L 144 mm, W 45 mm. Another one with a brass case (Wellcome number 290 or 6 7/36, in the Hamonic Collection) is inscribed Johann Darmreuther in Vendelstein 1769. A third one with a brass case and thirteen blades (Wellcome number 13555) is marked “Jo. Bat. BoellerFece anno1762.”
Scarificator, 16 blades, late 18th-early 19th century. Square scarificator with 16 pointed blades engraved, in script, “Joseph Plunger in Brünn.” Case is covered with brown leather. Purchased 1975. L 32 mm, W 32 mm, H 30 mm. NMHT 320033.02.
Scarificator, 12 blades, 19th century. Standard octagonal scarificator with blades cutting in opposite directions. Stamped on the bottom with an American eagle, similar to that of NMHT 233056 (M-9639). This may mean the scarificators were made around the time of the Centennial. Purchased 1975. L 48 mm, W 45 mm, H 28 mm. NMHT 320033.03.
Scarificator, 12 blades, 19th century. Standard octagonal scarificator with blades cutting in opposite directions. Engraved “H & H Hilliard/Edinburgh.” Purchased 1975. L 54 mm, W 47 mm, H 35 mm. NMHT 320033.04.
Scarificator, 16 blades, mid-late 19th century. Circular scarificator with fluted sides of the type manufactured by Maison Charrière in Paris. Seller describes instrument as French, mid-19th century. Analysis by the Conservation Laboratory shows that the instrument was made of an alloy of copper, zinc, nickel, and tin—probably the alloy that the French called “maillechort.” Winged lever on top triggers the sixteen small blades arranged on two rods and cutting in opposite directions. A round knob on the side is pushed downward to release the blades. Presumably by turning the bottom, one can regulate the depth of cut. However, the bottom is frozen. Purchased 1975. H 31 mm, D 45 mm. Neg. 76-7746. NMHT 320033.05. (Figure74.)
Scarificator, 12 blades, 19th century. Standard octagonal scarificator with blades cutting in opposite directions. Used by Dr. G.W.M. Honberger (b. 1819). Donated by the Medical and Chirurgical Faculty of Maryland 1976. L 46 mm, W 44 mm, H 32 mm. NMHT 302606.006.
Scarificator with case, 12 blades, 19th-20th century. Standard octagonal scarificator. Mechanism is frozen. Case covered with brown leather and lined with brown plush. Used by Dr. Jesse O. Purvis (b. 1880). Donated by the Medical and Chirurgical Faculty of Maryland 1976. Scarificator: L 48 mm, W 46 mm, H 32 mm. Case: L 61 mm, W 54 mm, H 79 mm. NMHT 302606.059.
Scarificator, 10 blades, late 19th century. Standard scarificator, blades cutting in opposite directions, owned by Dr. Charles Carroll Shippen of Baltimore (b. 1856). Donated by the Medical and Chirurgical Faculty of Maryland 1976. L 48 mm, W 44 mm, H 34 mm. NMHT 302606.060.
Scarificator, 12 blades, 19th century. Donated by the Medical and Chirurgical Faculty of Maryland 1976. L 48 mm, W 44 mm, H 36 mm. NMHT 302606.217.
Scarificator, 10 blades, 19th century. Octagonal scarificator of white metal with an iron lever. Purchased 1976. L 41 mm, W 39 mm, H 31 mm. NMHT 1977.0789.40.
Scarificator, 16 blades, 19th century. Purchased 1976. L 41 mm, W 35 mm, H 32 mm. NMHT 1977.0789.41.
Note: Additional scarificators are found under “Cupping Sets” and in the “Barber-surgeon’s kit” listed under “Related Artifacts.”
Cups
Cupping cup, glass, 19th century. Large dome-shaped cup. Purchased 1898. H 82 mm, D 66 mm. Anthropology vol. 30, catalog no. 143081.
Cupping cup, glass, 18th-19th century. Hand-blown bellied cup from Hebron, Palestine. Donated by Dr. Cyrus Adler 1902. H 53 mm, diameter 31 mm. Anthropology vol. 30, catalog no. 143155. Neg. 59139-A (BW).
Cupping cup, 12th century. Cup is made of opaque greenish glass and is triangular in shape. A vacuum is created in the cup by sucking air from the cup through a tubular extension on the side. This 12th century cup was recovered in Nishapur, Persia, by Dr. Richard Ettinghausen. On loan from Dr. Ettinghausen 1955. H 68 mm, D 42 mm. Neg. 73-4205 (BW, CS). NMHT 207389 (M-6836). (Figure108.)
Cupping cups (2), Pewter, 18th century. These cups are similar to those found in a Revolutionary War surgeon’s kit held by the Smithsonian, and may therefore be of military issue. Metal cups were often preferred to glass for military purposes because they were unbreakable. Donated by Hattie Brunner 1955. M-6829 H 42 mm, D 34 mm. M-6830 H 38 mm, D 34 mm. Neg. 76-9109 (BW), includes German brass cup. NMHT 207399 (M-6829 and M-6830).
Cupping cup, 12th century. A second Persian spouted cup (cf. NMHT 207389 [M-6836]), also made of opaque greenish glass, but more dome shaped. Purchased 1959. H 52 mm, D 50 mm. Neg. 73-4215 (BW). NMHT 224478 (M-8037).
Cupping cups (3), glass, 18th-19th centuries. Cups of smaller diameter such as these were used for cupping on the temples and other parts of the body with limited surface area. Cups are molded and slightly bellied. Purchased 1964. First cup: H 54 mm, D 36 mm. Second and third cups: H 56 mm, D 36 mm. NMHT 254866 (M-10694).
Cupping cup, horn, 20th century. A horn of a cow from Madaoua, Niger Republic, West Africa, used for drawing blood as late as the 1960s. There is a small foramen at the tip for exhausting the air by sucking. Purchased 1966. L 88 mm, D 52 mm. Neg. 73-5643 (BW, CS). NMHT 270023.01 (M-11998). (Figure37.)
Cupping cups, glass, 19th century. Set of five dome-shaped cups ranging from 50 mm to 60 mm in diameter and 64 mm to 72 mm in height. They were dated by the seller as 1895. Purchased 1969. NMHT 287162 (M-12872).
Cupping cups (2), glass, 20th century. These two small cups were purchased about 1912 by Mr. Harry Zucker from a drug supply company on 2nd Street and Avenue B on the Lower East Side of New York City. Mr. Zucker used the cups for dry cupping only. Donated by Ruth Zucker 1972. H 54 mm, D 34 mm. NMHT 302834.1 and 302834.2.
Cupping vessels (5), glass, 19th-20th centuries. Set of five dome-shaped cups ranging from 52 mm to 56 mm in height and 44 mm to 48 mm in diameter. Owned by Dr. E. L. Orsinger of Chicago (1852-1925). Donated by Dr. William Orsinger 1973. Neg. 74-4087 (BW, CS). NMHT 308730.09.
Cupping vessels (3), glass, 18th-19th centuries. These three cups have button like protuberances on top for ease in handling. Cups were often pictured in 18th century surgical texts with such protuberances. In the 19th century most cups lacked them. Purchased 1976. NMHT 314016.236-.239. (Figure109.)
Cupping vessel, glass, 19th century. Slightly bellied, hand-blown cup. Donated by Ada and Grace Abrahamson 1975. H 47 mm, D 43 mm. NMHT 318916.02.
Cupping vessel and bloodletting knife, 17th century. Persian brass conical cupping cup with a small hole at the tip for mouth suction. Knife has a wood and brass handle and a folding blade. Seller gives date as 17th century. Purchased 1976. Knife L 110 mm (folded). Cup L 86 mm, D 46 mm. Neg. 76-7749 (BW, CS). NMHT 320033.07. (Figure110.)
Cupping vessel, brass, 18th century. German brass cupping vessel. Purchased 1976. H 30 mm, D 35 mm. Neg. 76-9109 (BW), includes two pewter cups. NMHT 321697.22. (Figure111.)
Cupping vessels, glass, 19th century. Five small, hand-blown, green glass cupping cups. All are approximately the same size. Purchased 1976. Average dimensions: H 44 mm, D 35 mm. NMHT 321697.23-.27.
Cupping vessels, glass, 19th and 20th centuries. Assortment of 22 cupping cups, either dome-shaped or slightly bellied. Various sizes. Purchased 1976. NMHT 321697.28-.49.
Cupping Sets
Cupping set, 19th-20th century. Set consists of three cupping glasses, two dome-shaped and one bellied (M-4766, M-4767, M-4768), a 16 blade square scarificator (M-4771), a candle in a metal holder used to ignite the alcohol (M-4769), and a bit of sponge in a wire holder (M-4770). Presumably, the sponge would be dipped in alcohol, ignited, and inserted into the glasses. Used by Dr. Fred L. Orsinger of Chicago in the early 20th c. Donated by Fred G. Orsinger 1939. Scarificator: L 46 mm, W 37 mm, H 33 mm. Sponge and holder: L 78 mm. Neg. 61135-C (cupping glasses); 61130-B and 61130-C (scarificator), front and back views; 61164-B (candle in metal holder); 61129-D (sponge with wire holder); 76-9111 and 76-9113, internal views of scarificator. All negatives BW. NMHT 152130 (M-4766-71). (Figures13,43,62.)
Cupping set, 19th century. Contained in a mahogany case with red velvet lining are two glass cups without valves, a square model 16 blade scarificator with a leather case top, a braided leather tourniquet, a standard brass spring lancet in a case with an American eagle stamped in gold, and two lancets used on the gums with tortoiseshell shields. One gum lancet is engraved “Kuemerle & Kolbe,”a Philadelphia manufacturer. Case was originally intended for a set of six brass valved cupping glasses and a pump. Owned and used by Dr. Elam Dowden Talbot of Barlow County, Virginia (1810-1881). Donated by Elam D. Talbot through Edna G. Dorr 1966. Case: L 204 mm, W 140 mm, H 110 mm. NMHT 268719 (M-11878).
Cupping set, late 19th century. Set of four cupping glasses with brass fixtures, a pump, and two octagonal scarificators. Three of the cups are identical in size, and the fourth is slightly larger. One scarificator has 13 blades arranged on three rods turning in the same direction (cf. NMHT 254866 [M-10706]). Scarificator is engraved “Schively/Philad.” (manufacturer). The other scarificator has 10 blades turning in opposite directions. Used by Dr. Robert Evans Bromwell, Port Deposit, Maryland, in the late 19th century. Donated by Dr. Bromwell’s daughter, Roberta Bromwell Craig, 1970. Case: L 203 mm, W 135 mm, H 110 mm. NMHT 290051 (M-13113).
Cupping set, 19th century. Mahogany case lined in rose plush has six compartments holding 5 valved cups of slightly varying shapes. One cup and pump are missing. Used by Dr. Launcelot Jackes, a member of the Medical and Chirurgical Faculty of Maryland. Donated by the Medical and Chirurgical Faculty of Maryland 1976. Case L 184 mm, W 143 mm, M 94 mm. NMHT 302606.005.
Cupping set, 19th century. This elegant set was manufactured by Charrière of Paris. Set includes a circular scarificator with fluted sides similar to NMHT 320033.05 but made of brass. Scarificator is engraved “Breveté S.G.D. Gouv.” Also in the set are a brass pump, tubing, and three distinctive mushroom shaped glasses provided with stopcocks. Case is made of wood and lined with fabric. All pieces except tubing and scarificator are engraved with the Charrière name. Set was said to have been purchased in Paris in 1850 by Dr. Asa Shinn Linthicum. Donated by the Medical and Chirurgical Faculty of Maryland 1976. Case: L 240 mm, W 150 mm, H 94 mm. First glass: H 110 mm, D 74 mm. Second glass: H 130 mm, D 80 mm. Third glass: H 94 mm, diameter 54 mm. Pump: L 160 mm, D 26 mm. Scarificator: H 32 mm, D 46 mm. Tube: L 450 mm. Neg. 75-090 (BW & CS), 75-4237-C (CS). NMHT 302606.007. (Figure70.)
Cupping set, 19th century. Mahogany case lined in purple plush has compartments for eight cups and space for a pump. Seven cups with valves remain, one of them a narrow necked fluted cup for cupping the breasts. Found in the case, though not part of the set, are an envelope with a lancet blade and a packet of six lancet blades, each of slightly different shape. On the packet is handwritten “American/25 each.” Donated by the Medical and Chirurgical Faculty of Maryland 1976. Case: L 249 mm, W 130 mm, H 100 mm. NMHT 302606.035.
Cupping set, mid-19th century. Charrière cupping set with four mushroom-shaped glass cups (the largest two with round edges and the smaller two with oval edges) with brass stopcocks, a pump, and a scarificator. Two of the cups and the scarificator are engraved with the Charrière name. The scarificator is octagonal and has twelve small blades cutting in opposite directions. Internally it has two rolled springs as described in the Charrière patent of 1841. Brass wrench case is mahogany and lined with a reddish chamois above. Pasted to the chamois is a bit of leather with wording in gold which reads “Paris/Charrière/Frabricant/Des/Hopitaux/Civils/et/Mil. Rue de l’École de Méd. No. 7 (Bis).” Purchased 1976. Scarificator: L 42 mm, W 40 mm, H 34 mm. Pump: L 180.8 mm. Wrench: L 76.2 mm. Case: L 250 mm, W 133 mm, H 105 mm. Neg. 76-9117 (BW); 76-9110 (BW), scarificator showing springs. NMHT 1977.0789.44.
Cupping set, 19th century. Set may date from early to mid 19th century. Wooden case, lined with brown velvet, contains two glass cups, two scarificators, a ball handled torch stuffed with a cotton wick, and a cut glass alcohol bottle. Large scarificator has eight blades, almost pointed in shape and cutting in opposite directions. Smaller scarificator has four blades on one rod. Both scarificators are engraved, in script, “H. Johnson/31 King Street/Borough.” On top of the case is a silver plate with the name of the owner, “Mr. Sam Richards.” Purchased 1976. Torch: L 111 mm. Bottle: H 65 mm. Large scarificator: L 54 mm, W 48 mm, H 37 mm. Small scarificator: L 36 mm, W 35 mm, H 29 mm. Case: L 248 mm, W 109 mm, H 94 mm. Neg. 76-9119 (BW). NMHT 1977.0789.48. (Figure68.)
Cupping set, 19th century. This unique set consists of a red leather case lined in purple velvet, four cups with brass fittings, a large octagonal scarificator, and a pump. The most interesting piece in the set is the pump, an oval cylinder enameled in yellow with a gold and black floral design on front and back. On top of the cylinder are both the brass pump and the attachment to the cups. The scarificator has twelve blades cutting in opposite directions and is engraved, in script, “J & W Wood/74 King Street/Manchester.” The four cups vary widely in size, the largest having a diameter of 73 mm, the smallest a diameter of 43 mm. Purchased 1976. Pump: H 170 mm, L 78 mm, W 56 mm. Case: L 300 mm, W 150 mm, H 113 mm. Neg. 76-9118 (BW). NMHT 1977.0789.47.
Cupping set, 19th century. Case is mahogany with two ivory keyholes and a brass handle. It is lined in red plush. Set includes nine glass cups of various sizes (including an oval cup), each with screw threads covered by a brass cap. Pump is brass, 142 mm long, and has a bit of leather wrapped around the outside of the screw threads. There is an extra compartment in the case that might have held a tenth cup, but now contains only the key. In a compartment lined with silver paper and covered by a red plush top with ivory handle are two octagonal scarificators. The first is a common twelve blade scarificator in which the blades cut in opposite directions. It is engraved with a crown and “Evans/London.” The second is unusual in that it has eleven blades arranged on two rods. It is also engraved “Evans/London,” and on top is engraved, in script, “W Tothill,” and in block letters, “Staines No 2.” The mechanism is frozen. Purchased 1976. Case: L 285 mm, W 210 mm, H 106 mm. Neg. 76-7747 (BW, CS), pieces in case; 76-7748 (BW, CS), pieces out of case. NMHT 321697.21. (Figure112.)
Cupping set, 19th century. Case is mahogany, lined in red velvet, with brass bindings on the corners and isincomplete. A brass plate on the cover is blank. The key is missing. Set includes two glass cups without fittings, two brass stopcocks, one 12-blade scarificator, and a brass holder for a wick, which is missing. The scarificator bears the inscription on one side, “Salt & Son/Birmingham.” Purchased 1976. Brass wick holder: L 101.6 mm. Cups: D 53.8 mm and 52.3 mm. Case: L 223 mm, W 127 mm, H 103 mm. NMHT 1977.0789.45.
Cupping set, 19th century. Case is mahogany with brass “straps” and a brass handle that rests flush with the lid on the case. The key is missing. Set contains two glass cups, one alcohol lamp, and one octagonal bladed scarificator. One cup is shaped like the early bronze cups. Purchased 1976. Alcohol lamp: L 67 mm, D of base 45 mm, D of top 20 mm. First Cup: L 90 mm, D at opening 50 mm. Second cup: L 63 mm, D of base 45 mm. Case: L 260 mm, W 105 mm, H 98 mm. NMHT 1977.0789.46.
Cupping set, 19th century. Case is red leather and closes with two brass hooks. It contains two glass cups with fittings, a brass syringe, a small glass bottle shaped like a test tube, and a brass three-point scarifier with a spring setting and a button release. The set is unusual for its small size. Purchased 1976. Case: L 154 mm, W 108 mm, H 42 mm. Syringe: L (closed) 101 mm, D 25 mm. Cups: L 60 mm and 67 mm, D 28 mm and 23 mm. Scarificator: L 52 mm, D 20 mm. NMHT 1977.0789.49.
Cupping Apparatus
Cupping apparatus with case, patent model, 1844. Cupping set patented by Dr. R. J. Dodd. Surgeon, U.S.N. (U.S. patent 3537). Brass syringe with ivory handle is stamped “Dr. Dodd’s Improved Cupping Apparatus.” Syringe can be fitted with either a large or small plate with blades. To operate an internal part, a straight or curved glass tube is attached to the syringe along with a flexible metal lancet that runs the length of the tube. Straight glass tube is broken in two parts. Case is mahogany and lined with red velvet. On hinge is stamped “Horne Patent.” Transferred from the U.S. Patent Office 1926. Case: L 307 mm, W 178 mm, H 80 mm. Neg. 73-4237B (CS). NMHT 89797 (M-4288).
Cupping apparatus, patent model, 1856. Patented by Mr. Loyall Tillotson of Thompson, Ohio (U.S. patent 15626). Model of plunger apparatus is made of wood, though the actual instrument would have been made of metal. The body of the instrument was to be attached to a cup (not included in the model) with a spiral wire to which a battery would be attached. The novelty of the apparatus was that electricity would be employed in conjunction with dry cupping. Transferred from the U.S. Patent Office 1926. H 160 mm, D 60 mm. NMHT 89797 (M-4296).
Cupping apparatus, patent model, 1867. Patented by Mr. William D. Hooper of Liberty, Virginia (U.S. patent 68985). Model consists of a brass syringe attached to a wooden cup. In the working instrument the cup would be made of glass. Model does not contain the diaphragm and cutting blades. The novelty was that blades were to be tubular with adjustable length and that they would remain in the skin while blood was being removed. Transferred from the U.S. Patent Office 1926. Overall L 202 mm. Cup: L 47 mm, D 36 mm. Neg. 73-4214 (BW, CS). NMHT 89797 (M-4309).
Cupping apparatus with case, late 19th century. Invented by the Drs. W. S. Black and F. Black and manufactured by Wm. B. Stewart, Trenton, New Jersey, this set includes a hard rubber pump, three glass cups, the smallest for cupping the breasts, a valve, and a head for the pump. Missing are a nipple shield and rubber tubing. Case is made of wood and has a label attached to the inside top with an illustration of the set, the title, “Drs. W. S. & F. Black’s Combined Cupping Apparatus, Breast Pump, Stomach Pump, Aspirator, Atomizer, Etc., Etc.,” the name of the manufacturer, and directions for use. Donated by the Medical and Chirurgical Faculty of Maryland 1976. Case: L 250 mm, W 120 mm, H 78 mm. NMHT 302606.036.
Cupping apparatus with case, late 19th century. Another example of the previous all-purpose cupping set with the same pieces and three fragments of rubber tubing. Donated by the Medical and Chirurgical Faculty of Maryland 1976. NMHT 302606.037.
Breast Pumps
Breast pump, patent model, 1879. Patented by William Kennish of Philadelphia (U.S. patent 219738), this breast pump consists of a glass receiver with a hanging glass globe to catch the milk, and a rubber bulb to provide suction. The innovation was the addition of an internal valve and a valve at the bottom of the globe in such a way that continued compression and expansion of the large rubber bulb would cause milk to flow out of the valve at the base of the globe. Transferred from the U.S. Patent Office 1926. L 141 mm. NMHT (M-4343).
Breast pump. Glass breast cup with brass fittings and brass pump in a wooden case lined with green felt. Donated by the College of Physicians, Philadelphia, 1958. Cup: L 99 mm, W 72 mm at widest point. Pump: L 88 mm. Case: L 132 mm, W 121 mm, H 82 mm. Neg. 76-7761 (BW, CS). NMHT 220170 (M-7435). (Figure113.)
Breast pump. Glass breast pump with tube for self-suction of the breasts. Tip is broken. Purchased from the Medizinhistorisches Institut, Universität, Zurich, 1960. L 305 mm, H 80 mm. NMHT 232067 (M-9578).
Breast pump. Glass breast cup with protuberance for holding milk, attached to a rubber bulb. Top of bulb is stamped “Union India Rubber Co/Goodyear’s Patent/New York/1844 & 48.” Part of the original cardboard carton is extant. Donated by Mr. and Mrs. Elliston P. Morris 1964. L 205 mm, W of bulb 87 mm. Neg. 76-7762 (BW, CS). NMHT 252497 (M-10510). (Figure84.)
Breast pump. Hand blown breast pump with glass tube for self-suction. Purchased 1965. L 233 mm, W 103 mm at widest point, D 70 mm. Neg. 76-7759 (BW, CS); 76-7760 (BW, CS). NMHT 260557 (M-11467). (Figure83.)
Breast pump, 19th century. Glass breast cup with protuberance for holding milk attached to a vulcanite pump.Purchased 1965. L 242 mm. NMHT 260557 (M-11467.1).
Breast pump. Glass cup with “white metal” syringe similar to Meig’s Piston Breast Pump that was sold through surgical and pharmaceutical catalogs towards the end of the 19th century. Handle is missing. Donated by George Watson 1968. L 200 mm. NMHT 281244 (M-12343).
Breast pump. Another example similar to the one above. Used by Dr. Robert E. Bromwell, Port Deposit, Maryland (d. 1906). Donated by Roberta Craig 1972. L 168 mm, D of bulb 79 mm, D 35 mm. NMHT 299502 (M-14703).
Leeching
Leeches. Two leeches (Hirudo medicinalis) purchased in 1898, preserved and later mounted in plastic. L of leeches 83 mm. Anthropology vol. 30, catalog no. 143077. Neg. 73-4233 (BW, CS). (Figure91.)
Leech jar, 19th century. White ceramic leech jar typical of jars found in late 19th century pharmacies. Word “leeches” is painted in black with the symbol of medicine below in gold. Top is missing. On loan from Dr. Frederick D. Lascoff 1954. H 242 mm, D 229 mm. Neg. 73-4232 (BW, CS). NMHT 201821 (M-6712). (Figure114.)
Leech jars, 19th century. Elegant pair of tall Staffordshire leech jars. They are light blue, ornamented with gold bordered leaves in relief, and marked “Leeches” in gold on a dark blue decorated panel. Covers are perforated and have flower-shaped finials. Donated by Smith, Kline, and French Laboratories 1965. H 460 mm, D at widest point 215 mm. Neg. 73-4231 (BW, CS). NMHT 263554 (M-11504). (Figure20.)
Leech jar, 19th century. In contrast to the other jars in the Smithsonian collection, this one is small and plain, and perhaps more typical of 19th century leech jars. It is a white ceramic jar shaped like a canister with two knob handles and a perforated lid with its own knob handle. Jar is labeled “Leeches” in black and stamped “Germany” and “IQ” below. Purchased 1976. It was formerly owned by Dr. Sydney N. Blumberg. H 175 mm, D 107 mm. NMHT 1977.0789.43.
Leech jars, 19th century. Pair of tall Staffordshire leech jars with royal blue handles and royal blue perforated canopy tops. The jars are decorated with a multi-colored floral design upon a magenta background. Purchased 1976. H 710 mm, W 265 mm. Neg. 76-7765 (BW, CS). NMHT 321697.18-19. (Figure115.)
Lithograph, 1814. Framed colored lithograph dated “London/1814” and titled “Leech Finders.” Picture shows three women gathering leeches by a stream. Purchased 1975. W 454 mm, H 363 mm. Neg. 76-7741 (BW, CS). NMHT 320033.08. (Figure85.)
Artificial leech, 19th century. Brass,cylindrical“scarificator” has three pointed blades arranged in a triangle so as to simulate a leech bite. Blades are cocked by pulling on the handle of the device, and released by pushing a small button on the cylinder. Set also includes two small oval glass cups with brass stopcocks and a brass pump, a glass tube with cork lid for collecting blood, and a mass of silvery thread. The use of the thread is uncertain. Case is made of wood covered with red leather and lined with black plush. Unfortunately there are no manufacturer markings or other clues to the provenance of this unusual set. Purchased 1976. “Leech:” L 61 mm, D 20 mm. Pump: L 102 mm. Case: L 155 mm, W 107 mm, H 45 mm. Neg. 76-9120 (BW). NMHT 316478. (Figure98.)
Leech cage, 19th century. Tin, nickel, lead composition. The surface is worn and five holes are punctured in the hinge at one end. Purchased 1976. L 120 mm, H 32 mm, W 31 mm. Neg. 77-13984 (BW, CS). NMHT 1977.0576.02. (Figure116.)
Veterinary Bloodletting
Fleams
Note: Widths are measured at the widest point.
Fleam, 18th-19th century. Fleam has a brass shield and three fold out blades of different sizes. Donated by M. Lamar Jackson 1932. L 80 mm, W 27 mm. Neg. 73-4206 (BW, CS). NMHT 121573 (M-3462). (Figure100.)
Fleam, 19th century. Fleam has a brass shield, one blade, and a tenaculum (hook). Shield is engraved “Proctor” (manufacturer). Donated by Joseph L. Clough 1947. L 84 mm, W 27 mm. Neg 73-4209 (BW). NMHT 176124 (M-6480).
Fleam, 19th century. Fleam has a brass shield, three blades, and a knife. Donated by the University of Pennsylvania 1959. L 81 mm, W 25 mm. Neg. 61125-A (BW). NMHT 218383 (M-9255). (Figure117.)
Fleam, 19th century. Fleam has a brass shield and three blades, each marked with a crown denoting British manufacture and a “W.” Said to have been made in Sheffield, England. Purchased 1960. L 97 mm, W 33 mm. Neg. 59139-H (BW), case open, blades displayed; 59139-G (BW), case closed. NMHT 233570 (M-9665). (Figure118.)
Fleam, 17th or 18th century. Hand-made curved bar with projecting blade, described by seller as Swiss or Tyrolean. Case is wooden and hand-carved. It is not clear whether this fleam was used for human or for animal bloodletting. Purchased 1960. Fleam: L 129 mm. Case: L 146 mm, W 47 mm at widest point. Neg. 59139-E (BW). NMHT 233570 (M-9666). (Figure42.)
Note: There are two interesting early fleams in the Medical Historical Collection of Zurich University. One has a plain wooden handle and one has a turned metal handle with a metal extension.
Fleam, 19th century. Fleam has a horn shield and three blades. The first blade is stamped “Borwick,” an English manufacturer. Purchased 1964. L 82 mm, W 28 mm. NMHT 254866 (M-10696).
Fleam, 19th century. Fleam has a brass shield and two blades. First blade is stamped “Harmer & Co’s/Cast Steel Fleams/Sheffield.” Donated by H. J. Hopp 1970. L 82 mm, W 27 mm. NMHT 291361 (M-13828).
Fleam, 19th century. Fleam has brass shield and three blades. First blade is stamped “W. Harmar & Co. Cast Steel fleams Sheffield.” Purchased 1976. L 80 mm, W 27 mm. NMHT 321697.24.
Fleam, 18th century. Five-bladed fleam said to have been made in Denmark. Instrument appears to be hand-made. Brass shield has a hinged piece covering the blades that is held closed by a brass latch. Purchased 1976. L 89 mm, W 30 mm, H 17 mm. NMHT 321697.16.
Fleam with case, 19th century. Fleam has a brass shield and three blades, engraved with a “W” over the name “Pepys.” Fitted leather case. Purchased 1976. Fleam: L 102 mm, W 40 mm. NMHT 321697.03.
Fleam with case, 19th century. Fleam has a brass shield, two blades, and a knife. Fitted leather case. Purchased 1976. L 94 mm, W 26 mm. NMHT 321697.04.
Fleam with case, 19th century. Fleam has a horn shield, two blades, and is engraved “Green & Pickslay.” Fitted black leather case. Purchased 1976. L 100 mm, W 32 mm. Neg. 76-7758 (BW, CS). NMHT 321697.05. (Figure101.)
Fleam with case, 19th century. Fleam has a brass shield and four blades. Fitted leather case. Owner’s name, “C. Famell Isleworth[?],” is written in ink on the case. Purchased 1976. L 79 mm, W 27 mm. NMHT 321697.06.
Fleam, 19th century. Brass shield, four blades, and one hook. Purchased 1976. L 122 mm, W 30 mm, W with pocket for hook 15 mm. NMHT 1977.0789.17.
Fleam, 19th century. Brass shield with five blades. An arrow is stamped on one side of the shield. Purchased 1976. L 88 mm, W 27 mm. NMHT 1977.0789.18.
Fleam, 19th century. Brass shield with three different sized blades. Case is inscribed “Gorham Parsons, Byfield.” Purchased 1976. L 88 mm, W 30 mm. NMHT 1977.0789.19.
Fleam, 19th century. Brass case with three different sized blades. Purchased 1976. L 82 mm, W 26 mm. NMHT 1977.0789.20.
Fleam, 19th century. Brass shield with five blades and one hook. On one side of the case appears indistinctly, “HOW: IN London” on each of the blades except the straight blade and the hook. Purchased 1976. L 85 mm, W 23 mm. NMHT 1977.0789.21.
Fleam, 19th century. Five blades in a brass case. On two of the blades appears “How: in LONDON.” Purchased 1976. L 80 mm, W 22 mm. NMHT 1977.0789.23.
Fleam with case, 19th century. Four blades in brass case. Purchased 1976. L 95 mm, W 25 mm. NMHT 1977.0789.22.
Fleam, 19th century. Brass case with three blades. Purchased 1976. L 94 mm, W 32 mm. NMHT 1977.0789.25.
Fleam, 19th century. Three blades in brass case. Purchased 1976. L 83 mm, W 29 mm. NMHT 1977.0789.26.
Fleam, 19th century. Single blade in brass case. On blade is marked “ARNOLD & SONS LONDON.” Purchased 1976. L 98 mm, W 38 mm. NMHT 1977.0789.27.
Fleam, 19th century. Fleam has a horn shield and two blades engraved “J & S Maw/London.” Horn shield is broken on one side, and has openings for a thumb lancet on each side. Only one thumb lancet with tortoise shell shield remains. Purchased 1976. L 84 mm, W 28 mm. NMHT 321697.12.