Esmarch’s chloroform dripping bottle in a shaped leather case, used for administering anaesthetic in the field in the late 19th century.

The clear glass bottle which would have held the ether or chloroform has a flat and convex surface so as to fit the case. The sealing cork contains two metal tubes which can be closed with a pin and stopper.  The face mask would have been covered with gauze onto which the anaesthetic would be dripped. There is also a pair of tongue holding forceps.

• From the Phisick collection