A beautifully preserved pair of mid-Victorian medical instruments: two original Simpson-pattern Uterine Probes (Sounds), dating to circa 1860–1880. These artifacts offer an incredibly tactile window into the history of 19th-century gynecology and obstetrics.
 
Each probe features a beautifully contoured, hand-polished handle crafted from solid ebony, the face, or thumb, side of which is hatched metal to ensure a non-slip grip for the physician. The long, slender metal shafts are engineered from their traditional, slightly pliable composition, allowing for anatomical shaping. Notably, the shafts retain their original, precisely notched measurement graduations used to calculate depth during diagnosis.
 
As classic products of the pre-antiseptic era, before organic materials were abandoned for sterilised stainless steel, this pair carries historical charm and curiosity.
 
Specifications:
Era: Mid-to-Late Victorian (c. 1860–1880).
 
Pattern: Sir James Young Simpson's Uterine Sound.
 
Materials: Solid carved ebony and metal, one shaft is brass.
 
Condition: Excellent antique condition. The ebony handles are remarkably pristine, entirely free of the chips, splits, or cracks so common to instruments of this age. The shafts are straight with minor, character-giving age patina.
 
Collector's Note: While individual Victorian sounds occasionally surface, a matching pair in this level of preservation is a much rarer find. A perfect addition to a premier collection of medical antiques, history of midwifery, or unique cabinet of curiosities.
 
The sounds measure 31.5cm (12") in length.