The pharyngeal sponge holder is straight and consists of a thin metal rod with a thickened handle on one end and a toothed clamp on the other; the handle has a rounded end, and is hexagonal; it is joined to the thinner middle rod with a small bell-shaped component; the middle section is round and t…
The pharyngeal sponge holder is straight and consists of a thin metal rod with a thickened handle on one end and a toothed clamp on the other; the handle has a rounded end, and is hexagonal; it is joined to the thinner middle rod with a small bell-shaped component; the middle section is round and thin; a split appears as part of the design in the rod as it nears the clamp; a small movable spool-shaped piece controls the width of the clamp; gripping lines are stamped on the top and bottom of this piece; the jaws of the clamp end with two pointed teeth on each end which interlock (mouse teeth); the instrument is solid.
Number Of Parts
1
Provenance
Originally owned by Dr. Publow, who practised in Prince Edward County between 1850 and 1900. Given to Dr. M. Williams, head of Otolaryngology at Queen's University.
Maker
Alhernsten
Dates
1890
1910
circa 1890-1910
Date Remarks
Similar items found in 1890 and 1906 catalogues
Material
metal: silver
Inscriptions
"Alhernsten" stamped into the metal handle
Permanent Location
Storage Room 0010
0010-E3-9
Length
25.4 cm
Diameter
0.5 cm
Unit Of Measure
centimeters
Condition Remarks
The item shows wear, especially on the handle (signs of handling, slight scratches) and on the clamp where moving part runs along the metal; some damage to the plating can be seen here; slight accretion of dirt and some corrosion can be seen in clamp groove when spool-shaped part is moved; #2: slightly rusty.
Copy Type
Original
Reference Types
Book
Reference Comments
Dr. M. Williams; "An Illustrated Catalogue and Price List of Max Wocher and Son," by Max Wocher and Son, 189_, p. 128 (similar to item #1329); "Wholesale Catalogue of Surgical Instruments & Appliances," by Down Bros. Ltd., 1906, p. 358 (item #1576)
Research Facts
Identified by Dr. Williams as a "cotton carrier."
Exhibit History
On display at Hotel Dieu Hospital circa 1983-1993; the item was mounted on an acidic board with copper-covered wires to secure it.