Photo by David Friend Productions, San Diego, California
VERY LARGE FRENCH SURGICAL SET by MATHIEU AND COLLIN & CIE
15-002. French, late 3rd quarter 19th century, with label in the lid "Composition de la Caisse complete d'Instruments de Churgie, Modele transforme, pour les Batiments de l'Etat, par Mathieu, Fabricant d'Instruments de Churgie, 113 Boulevard St. Germain Paris," signed in script on the case "Mon Charriere Collin & Cie, Paris," and the instruments signed both Collin & Cie and Mathieu. Red felt lined mahogany case with decorative brass corners, fittings, and presentation plate on top signed in script "Edouard Desmoulins, Medecin de la Marine," 23" x 13 1/2" x 4 1/2", with removable tray fitted for instruments. The set contains over 75 major pieces, in 9 different categories, including: general surgery, amputation, trepanning, catheterization, rectal, dental, eye, etc. This large set is remarkably complete; only a few minor instruments are missing. The instruments are all in fine overall condition; many appear to be unused. The case exterior is in fine overall condition; the red felt lining the trays shows some insect damage around the edges. Altogether, an outstanding large 19th century French surgical set, suitable for museum display.
