This is a rare and important dental pelican dating to the late 16th or early 17th century with an adjustable pivoting arm which can be raised or lowered by turning a key linked to a screw mechanism anchored by a central frame.

The distal end of the fixed arm has attractive cross-hatching consistent with the period. The shape of the screw head is also characteristic of pieces from the late 16th century. There are only minimal signs of corrosion and the threads of the screw mechanism are intact and clean and the instrument in perfect working order.

External link: Wellcome Images

• From the Phisick collection