microtome knife

Date1900-1920

Inventory Number1996-1-0297

ClassificationMicrotome Knife

Subject

Maker Wilhelm Walb Nachfolger founded 1842

User Harvard Medical School founded 1782

Cultural Region

Place of Origin

Dimensionsmicrotome: 3.1 × 1.8 × 20 cm (1 1/4 × 11/16 × 7 7/8 in.)
case: 5 × 22 × 5 cm (1 15/16 × 8 11/16 × 1 15/16 in.)

Material

Accessoriescase

DescriptionThis microtome knife has a rectangular steel blade that terminates in a curved handle. The handle is short and covered with hard rubber with diamond-texture pattern. The knife is stored in a wooden case.

Signedunsigned

Inscribedin pencil in bottom of case: 34

Curatorial RemarksThe knife is identical to those signed by Wilhelm Walb (inv. 1989-0020 and 1989-0024) and the wood case has the same nickel-plated latch as that found with the above. However, since it is later in date, it is presumed that this was made by Wilhelm Walb Nachfolger.

Historical AttributesLikely used at Harvard Medical School.