Knife with Ornamental Handle, from the Way to Chirurgerie 1850 - 1900

This 19th-century drawing by an anonymous artist depicts a knife with an intricately ornamented handle. The handle is shaped like a serpentine figure with wings, while the blade is depicted as a simple, curved shape. The drawing's accompanying text describes the knife as an "incision knife" used in surgery, illustrating the evolution of medical instruments during this period. The artwork, currently housed in the Metropolitan Museum of Art, offers a glimpse into the history of surgical practices and the intricate craftsmanship of the time.