Simpson type obstetrical forceps, Birmingham, England, 1871-

These short obstetrical forceps followed a design by Sir James Young Simpson (1811-1870). Simpson pioneered the use of anaesthetics during childbirth. The forceps delivered babies from low down in the birth canal. The two blades fit together in deep notches known as the ‘English Lock’. Simpson also developed long forceps. These were heavier. They extracted a baby from higher up the birth canal. His long and short forceps were adapted in many later designs. The forceps are made of steel and ebony. They were manufactured by Philip Harris & Co of Birmingham, England. maker: Philip Harris & Co. Ltd. Place made: Birmingham, Borough of Birmingham, West Midlands, England, United Kingdom