993.1334.1: Inhaler, c. 1880
Additional Images
Image No. 1294 ; Photographer: Helen Kingsley
Object Description
ALLIS ether inhaler which consists of a hollow housing fitted with removable inner grid frame that has gauze stretched back and forth over parallel bars. The inhaler was placed over the nose and mouth where liquid ether would vaporize from the gauze when inserted into the housing. 'B' inscribed in circle on outer surface of housing. Cover for housing missing.
Object Classification
Accession Number: 993.1334.1
Collection: Anaesthesiology
Date: c. 1880
Object Dimensions
- Length: 11.9 cm
- Height: 17.5 cm
- Width: 6.7 cm
Object Parts
Object Materials
- copper alloy,
- plating,
- textile
Acquisition Detail
- History of Use: One of the earliest anesthesia masks that could be easily sterilized with better control than a simple handkerchief or mask. There was less CO2 contamination than a closed system inhaler. Invented by S.H. Allis of Philadelphia in 1874.
