993.23.1: Lancet, 19th Cent.

Additional Images

993.23.1: Lancet.
Image No. 2100 ; Photographer: Helen Kingsley

Object Description

Spear-pointed single blade lancet with tortoise-shell guards, stamped with makers name 'JOHNSON LONDON'

Object Classification

Accession Number: 993.23.1
Collection: Public Health & Hygiene
Date: 19th Cent.

Object Dimensions

  • Length: 5.8 cm
  • Width: 1 cm

Object Parts

Object Materials

  • steel,
  • tortoiseshell

Acquisition Detail

  • Manufacturer: Johnson
  • History of Use: At least four cuts would be made in the flesh of the arm using this sharp blade or lancet. Vaccine matter, containing a small amount of infectious particles, would then be smeared into the cuts.