Scalpel a working tool of the medicus
The instruments of a Roman physician were already very comprehensive 2000 years ago. The Roman scalpels show astonishing similarities to the surgical instruments used today. This fact is easily explained. The instruments must fit perfectly in the hand and be guided accurately. At the same time, it must be possible to continue the delicate movements in the tip of the Roman scalpel.
Scalpellum - the lancet of physicians
Successful surgical procedures are known as far back as the early history of mankind. These even include cranial trepanations, which have been proven to have survived. In the further development of mankind, surgery gained medical importance mainly due to injuries in warfare. In Rome of the 1st or 2nd century AD, the development of medicine was already well advanced. Interesting physicians and natural scientists such as Galenus of Pergamon contributed significantly to the functional and also material design of the Roman scalpels.
- Length: ca. 14,5cm
- Brass bronze/steel
- Find from Roman doctor's grave, Bingen
Perfection lies in the details
The Roman scalpel has always had a special significance. The success or failure of an operation always depended on the perfectly placed cut. Whether a simple bloodletting of an aristocrat or the treatment of complicated wounds after gladiator fights, without a perfect Roman scalpel impossible.
Roman scalpels, like other instruments, were decorated with particularly beautiful ornaments. Mostly every medicus had his own pattern. Only the finest materials were used. As here with this valuable replica of a Roman scalpel, the production was done by masters of metalworking. The only semi-sharp ground and polished iron blade was cold forged. It can be brought to the correct sharpness with a fine grinding stone. The handle was also made on the basis of an original find and is made of polished brass bronze.
Forum Traiani ® registered trademark
