LDBDA : 013

pelican

pelican with an octagonal bone handle. The shaft has a screw thread so that claws can be adjusted. The bolster is flexible and covered with leather.

Pelicans were extraction instruments used from the 16th to 18th centuries. They were named after their resemblance to a pelican's beak. Pelicans could be made from wood, metal or ivory. The bolster was placed against the gum with the claw over the tooth. The tooth was then prised out sideways. This method could cause a lot of method to the teeth and gums and could even lead to a broken jaw. This is a more sophisticated version with a screw thread to adjust the claw and a flexible bolster.

maker: Daran 1774

handle bone; shaft steel; bolster leather; length 130mm