Historical information

This instrument was used by Dr Fritz Duras (1896-1965), who moved to Australia from Germany in 1937. As his father was Jewish, Duras was forced to leave Germany, and came to Australia to take up a post as director of physical education at Melbourne University.
This instrument was part of a collection of instruments given to his son-in-law, Dr Michael Kloss, who was an obstetrician. Dr Kloss subsequently had it engraved and used it in his own practice, before donating the item to the College.

Physical description

Metal needle holder. The needle holder's overall shape is that of a teardrop, with a rounded handle section narrowing to serrated grip points at one end. The needle holder appears to be made of a plated metal. There is a clasp at one end for locking the needle holder into place. A rounded tab on the inner aspect of the instrument is engraved with the number '50'. The word 'Kloss' is engraved on one side of the instrument, towards the points.

Inscriptions & markings

'50' 'Kloss'