Among the notable boxed sets of surgical instruments in the College’s collection is a large amputation set crafted by Matthews of London. Dating back to the mid-19th century, probably the 1860s, this set is a significant piece of surgical history and manufacturing precision.

 

Housed in a mahogany case with brass mounts, bands, hinges, and an escutcheon plate, the set reflects skilled craftsmanship. Lined with blue velvet, the case measures 46.5 cm long, 21.5 cm wide, and 8.5 cm deep. A label affixed to the front lower lip reads ‘MATTHEWS. 8 PORTUGAL ST LONDON. W.C.’ linking it to one of the most prominent surgical instrument makers of the era.

The silver plated instruments have ivory handles engraved with a lozenge pattern for grip. Each piece bears the Matthews name and address, except for the large Liston knife, which is marked ‘Skidmore Sheffield’. Despite the different engraving, this knife belongs to the set, as its handle matches the others. William Skidmore, a Sheffield-based instrument maker, won recognition at the Great Exhibition of 1851, indicating that Matthews sourced some components from other manufacturers. The large knives are not particularly sharp, suggesting that this set was not intended for surgical use but for display or presentation.

The complete set includes:
•    Tenon saw
•    Butcher’s amputating saw with two spare blades
•    Gouge
•    Four amputating knives
•    Scalpel
•    Tenaculum
•    Two bone forceps
•    Lion forceps
•    Dieffenbach’s artery forceps (pair)
•    Assalini’s artery forceps (pair)
•    Dressing forceps
•    Petit’s spiral tourniquet.

The instruments show no signs of use. While atmospheric exposure has caused some deterioration on their upper surfaces, the undersides remain in near-perfect condition. This suggests that the set was intended possibly as a prize, an honorary gift, or an exhibition piece displayed in a shop window or at trade fairs to showcase Matthews’ manufacturing quality.

Matthews & Co., established in 1846 by William Matthews, operated from 8-10 Portugal Street in London until 1894. The location near the Royal College of Surgeons, placed the firm at the centre of surgical advancements in Victorian Britain.

Now part of the College’s collection, this set was donated by D. Palmer and serves as an example of the evolution of surgical instrumentation and the craftsmanship of past manufacturers.