Bow-frame amputation saw, Europe, 1601-1700
This amputation saw is typical of designs from the 1600s. The blade is held by locking nuts and it has an ornate frame and a mahogany handle in the shape of an animal. Unfortunately for patients, these decorative features provided an ideal environment in which germs could thrive. The saw was purchased from the private collection of Noel Hamonic (active 1850-1928) by Henry Wellcome in 1928.
Related Themes and Topics
There are 539 related objects. View all related objects
Techniques and Technologies:
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.
Removal of part of, or a whole limb by surgery. Used to control pain or the spread of disease in the affected limb.