The blade is 15.2 cm long, it is stiffened at the back by a brass reinforcement which covers the back of the blade. (The surgical instruments used on land are rather stiffened by a steel part). Such a blade size was used for small bone amputations.
The handle is made of turned hardwood, bulbous for easy grip.
At the back of the handle, on each side, there is a punch representing a marine anchor. These punches are slightly worn by time but clearly visible. The handle is connected to the blade by a brass ferrule.
This surgical instrument dates from the first half of the 19th century, but it is difficult to place it more precisely because on-board surgical kits were not yet completely regulated as they were a century later.
The item was collected in Brittany in the region of Brest which was an important military port.
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Ref 2Y-2318