A pair of antique "Smellie" type obstetrical birthing forceps dating from around 1920 and made by Allen & Hanburys in London, a well-known British medical instrument maker established in the early 18th century and active until the mid-20th century. These forceps are fenestrated (hollow-bladed), have both a pelvic and cephalic curve. 
Obstetrical forceps gripped a baby’s head to help delivery during difficult childbirths. and as can be seen in the illustration included here, once in place, they could be secured perhaps rather crudely, , by placing a cord around the top of the handles using the grooves.
 
William Smellie (5 February 1697 – 5 March 1763) was a Scottish obstetrician and medical instructor who practiced and taught primarily in London. One of the first prominent male midwives in Britain, he designed an improved version of the obstetrical forceps, established safer delivery practices, and through his teaching and writing helped make obstetrics more scientifically based. He is often called the "father of British midwifery". 
 
The forceps measure 31cm in length and are in good condition with minor tarnish to the tip of the right hand blade. 
 
William Smellie (1697 – 1763) was a Scottish obstetrician and medical instructor who practiced and taught primarily in London. One of the first prominent male midwives in Britain, he designed an improved version of the obstetrical forceps, established safer delivery practices, and through his teaching and writing helped make obstetrics more scientifically based. He is often called the "father of British midwifery"
An example of an earlier version of the same instrument can be seen in the Science Museum Collection in London, the link is below should you be interested to investigate further.
 
https://collection.sciencemuseumgroup.org.uk/objects/co95843/smellie-type-obstetrical-forceps
 
The catalogue pages showing similar items have been taken from a late 19th century catalogue.