Burrows stethoscope is characterised by the rubber ring around the ear piece which was used for percussion.

However, the remarkable feature of this stethoscope is the fact that the stem is made from solid wood (from the lightness of the wood and the unusual grain this is probably palm, but it could also be cane). The cut surface seen at the intercostal chest piece shows longitudinal tubular structures which surprisingly transmit heart sounds which are crisp and clear to the ear.

• From the Phisick collection