Historical information

Neville Barnes obstetric forceps have a cephalic and pelvic curve and are used for delivery of babies presenting as occipitoanterior. The left blade is put on first, followed by the right blade – the baby is then pulled down until the occiput is under the symphysis, then pulled around. This particular set of Barnes forceps is unusual because it has handles/grips associated with Simpson type obstetrical forceps, making it a combination of styles.

These forceps are similar in appearance to a style of 19th century forceps known as Hensoldt's forceps, made by Jetter and Scheerer, c. 1899. These are pictured as Fig. 771 in the Sir Kenardatth Das catalogue (see references).

J. Gray & Son, Sheffield, were in operation from 1849 to 1962, so these forceps date from this time period.

Physical description

Set of obstetric forceps. Consists of a set of stainless steel blades, with black bakelite hand grip attachment. Forceps are engraved with the text 'J.GREY & SON" and "SHEFFIELD". The number '4' is engraved on the inner aspect of the blade, at the join point.

Inscriptions & markings

'J.GREY & SON/SHEFFIELD'