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For the Educated Elite – Tellurium
A tellurium is a mechanical model that demonstrates the relative positions and movements of the Earth, Moon, and Sun. It is often used to teach and illustrate astronomical concepts, such as the causes of day and night, the phases of the Moon, and the changing seasons. They were often found in classrooms, observatories, and even in the homes of the educated elite.
Tellurim, branded "FR. J. Berg Stockholm", around 1900.
A Cure for Everything – Bloodletter
The practice of bloodletting has been known for over 2,500 years, but its use likely started even earlier. In many cultures, bloodletting was believed to reliably cure almost all human and animal diseases. The medical theory behind bloodletting was that bodily fluids, blood, phlegm, yellow bile, and black bile, needed to be balanced. During the 1850s, bloodletting as an acceptable treatment method sharply declined.
Brass and steel vessel, 19th century.
To Attract Attention – Victorian Alarm Gun
A Victorian alarm gun is a type of signaling device from the 19th century, used primarily for alerting people to emergencies or as a distress signal. These guns were typically mounted on ships, buildings, or at essential points around an estate. They were often simple, large-calibre firearms designed to fire a blank shot or a loud noise to attract attention.
A small bronze alarm gun of ingenious wedge shaped design to push under a door, the action firing with a percussion cap, marked G.J.B. Patent.
Creating Crisp – Goffering Iron
A goffering iron is a historical tool used in the 18th and 19th centuries for creating crisp, decorative pleats or ruffles in fabric, particularly in items like collars, cuffs, and other parts of clothing or linens. The heated rod is used to press and shape fabric, creating small, precise folds or pleats. The process is known as "goffering." This was particularly useful for maintaining the structured appearance of ruffled collars or cuffs, which were popular in fashion during certain periods.
Iron for lace, brass, first half of the 19th century
For the Gourmet – Marrow Scoop
A marrow scoop is a specialised dining utensil designed for extracting bone marrow from the inside of bones, particularly from long bones such as beef or veal shanks. Bone marrow is considered a delicacy in many cuisines, and the scoop's design facilitates the removal of the substance.
Marrow scoops were particularly popular in Europe during the 18th and 19th centuries and are often found in antique silverware collections.
A George III marrow scope.
Smooth Operator – Ironing Glass
An ironing glass was used in the 18th and 19th centuries to smooth and polish delicate fabrics, particularly linens. It was an essential item in a well-equipped household for maintaining the appearance of fine clothing and household linens.
Ironing stone in glass, 18th century.
Traditional Currency – Katanga Cross
A Katanga cross is a type of traditional currency used in the Katanga region of what is now the Democratic Republic of the Congo. Katanga crosses were primarily used as a form of currency for trade, particularly in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. They were exchanged for goods, services, and even as a bride price in marriage negotiations.
Katanga Cross, Congo, probably 19th century.
Potential Health Benefits – Electric Charge Shock Machine
In the Victorian era, electric shock machines were used for medical treatment and entertainment. These machines, often called "electrotherapy devices" or "electrical machines," were popularised due to the fascination with electricity and its potential health benefits. The devices typically generated low-voltage electrical currents, which were applied to the body for various purposes. Victorians often viewed electricity as a "cure-all" because it was a novel and mysterious force.
Antique mahogany cased electric charge / shock machine with an unusual gauge to top by F McElroy Longsight, Manchester.
