Hands showing the alphabet of sign language. Wood engraving.

1 print : wood engraving

The modern alphabet, for the deaf and dumb. Lettering continues: "The only letters which require any explanation is H, the right-hand being placed on the left, is drawn along it horizontally, in the direction of the arrow. For S, lock the two little fingers; for X the two fore-fingers; and for W clasp both hands. Touch the tip of each of the fingers for the vowels; and follow the arrow down the middle finger for J (or long I)." Bears number top right : 213

Wellcome Collection 17996i