Dental cabinet by The Dental Manufacturing Co. Ltd., 1912.
 
The cabinet.
The cabinet is an “M” pattern dental surgery cabinet in complete and original condition, a product of the Dental Manufacturing Company Limited and shown here in their trade catalogue dated 1912. The cabinet measures 171cm high, 50cm wide and 41cm deep. The catalogue is proud to boast about the company’s association with Dr J Leon Williams, both a customer and a dental furniture designer for them; James Leon Williams, 1852–1932 was a pioneering American dentist, dental researcher, and prosthodontist acclaimed for foundational work in dental histology and the invention of modern artificial teeth. Constructed from rich, hand-polished timber with beautifully figured burl walnut accents, this museum-quality cabinet is a masterclass in Edwardian craftsmanship. It features a convenient tambour roll-top shutter protecting upper storage, multiple instrument drawers, a striking inset marble working surface with a bevelled mirror panel, and lower cupboards designed for clinical accessories. A true centrepiece for collectors of medical antiques, dental fil prop' buyers, or those curating a dramatic dark academia interior.
 
The cabinet is best described by the catalogue entry of the time:
“It is no uncommon thing for rooms to have narrow recesses in which Cabinets of the regulation width will not go. It is to provide against this difficulty, without at the same time depriving the Practitioner of all necessary conveniences, that this Cabinet has been designed. It is divided up as follows:-
A cupboard for drugs, closed with a tambour shutter, eight drawers of varying depths for instruments; a broad marble working surface, three drawers for forceps, clamps, rubber dam etc., and a large cupboard at the base for bulky articles.
All the drawers are automatically locked by closing and locking the shutter of the cup-board assigned for drugs. The whole is constructed of solid walnut richly veneered with specially chosen walnut of selected grain. The finish is the same as that given to all our cabinets. The hard polished surface will stand all the rough usage of the busiest practice, and enable it to present a handsome appearance long after the ordinary dental cabinet would have become shabby.”
The introductory text from the catalogue reads thus:
“DENTAL FURNITURE AND A BRIEF WORD UPON IT.
The complete equipment of the Surgery is a matter of supreme importance to the practitioner. So much depends upon the impressions conveyed to the patient, who is narrowly watching everything with all the senses alert, and every nerve aroused-the confident movements of the operator; the easy, noiseless opening of the drawers of the up-to-date cabinet; the graceful, silent action and comfort of the dental chair; the quiet, fascinating motion of the luxurious fountain spittoon—all details calculated to induce a growing sense of confidence and satisfaction.
These are facts the Dentist cannot afford to overlook, and these are details which it is
our business to constantly watch and study.”
 
The Dental Manufacturing Company.
The Dental Manufacturing Company was incorporated in 1874 manufacturing and supplying dental equipment, artificial teeth and dental furniture and regarded as a major supplier into this market helping to establish Britain’s reputation for innovation in the dental field in the Victorian and Edwardian eras. Examples of their output are highly sought after today by collectors and Museums and survive in very small numbers as they were made for a small market. 
 
A brochure with photo's and further details about this item is available via email, please ask if you would like to receive a copy.
 
We will deliver personally within 150 miles of Southampton, for anywhere else and particularly overseas please talk to us before purchasing to discuss what delivery options may be available.