24th Nov, 2022 11:00

Fine Scientific & Medical Instruments and Books

 
  Lot 39
 

Medicine, Dr Mudge's Inhaler

English, c. 1800-1850, in pewter, 14cm high.

Note: Dr Mudge’s pewter inhaler, invented 1778, was used for the inhalation of vapours in the treatment of “catarrhous cough”, using opium and aromatic leaves infused into hot water. Suction applied to the spout via a flexible tube would draw air through the holes in the hollow handle and through a single hole at it’s base (see pictures) which would bubble through the infusion. Covering some or all of the holes in the handle would decrease the amount of air drawn through and vary the strength of the opium laden vapours.

Sold for £238

Result plus buyers premium


 

English, c. 1800-1850, in pewter, 14cm high.

Note: Dr Mudge’s pewter inhaler, invented 1778, was used for the inhalation of vapours in the treatment of “catarrhous cough”, using opium and aromatic leaves infused into hot water. Suction applied to the spout via a flexible tube would draw air through the holes in the hollow handle and through a single hole at it’s base (see pictures) which would bubble through the infusion. Covering some or all of the holes in the handle would decrease the amount of air drawn through and vary the strength of the opium laden vapours.

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