Object Record
Images
Metadata
Object ID # |
2017.072.001ab |
Object Name |
Case, Medical Instrument |
Other Name |
Set, Amputation |
Title |
JOSEPH GRAY & SON Surgical Instruments Case (and Locking Key) |
Year Range from |
1885 |
Year Range to |
1890 |
Made |
Joseph Gray & Son |
Place of Origin |
England, United Kingdom |
Description |
A wooden, 19th-century surgical instruments case (a). It is made of reddish-finished wood, with a hinged lid and a locking mechanism and key (b). There are two flattish, pivoting brass latches at the sides to secure it closed. The interior is lined with purple velvet and paper, and has stored surgical instruments stored in it (see Related items). There is no lettering seen on the case itself. The top of the lid once had an inset oval nameplate, but it is now gone. The oval brass escutcheon at the front for the stumphole key is flat and plain. The lock has two squarish eyes (it is a Victorian piece). The underside of the case has a pencilled name: "W. Dow Owen Sound" |
Makers mark |
There are Joseph Gray & Son maker's marks stamped on the instruments. |
Provenance |
Manufactured in Sheffield, England, likely by the Joseph Gray & Son company, a surgical instruments maker, that was established in 1849 as Gray & Lawson. The company name changed to Joseph Gray & Co. by 186_. They became Joseph Gray & Son in 18__. It also has been used to store two Stevens & Son scalpels (made in London, England). Owned/used by Dr. William George Dow (George Dow). Dr. Dow (b. 1861) graduated from medical school in 1886 and then practised in Owen Sound, Grey County from 1886-1927. His practise/residence was in the corner building at 1000 1st Ave. West / 117 10th St. West (prior to 1909 called 2 Frost Street). Dr. Dow was an uncle of Mrs. Grace Pollock. Grace was the wife of Dr. Allan Pollock. They and their family inherited some of Dr. Dow's items. The item was passed down to Doug Pollock. |
Collection |
Medical/Dentistry, 19th-c Collection |
Material |
Wood/Velvet/Finish/Glue/Metal/Paper/Dye |
Dimensions |
H-7 W-42.8 L-13 cm |
Found |
Owen Sound, Grey County |
People |
Dow, Dr. William G. |
Subjects |
Medical equipment & supplies Medical personnel Amputees Surgical instruments Surgery |
Function |
A portable storage case for a set of 19th-century surgical instruments (pre-sterilization type). The case held sharp instruments, so it would be kept locked by the medical practitioner who owned it. His name was likely engraved on the nameplate on the top of the lid. |