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English Delftware Barber-Surgeons bowl, 1680-1730

© 2021 Royal Pharmaceutical Society

Description

English Delftware Barber-Surgeons bowl, probably manufactured in London, 1680-1730

Barber-Surgeons bowls were designed with a recess in the rim to fit around the neck of the person being shaved.
The rim is decorated with tools of the barbers’ trade: a comb, scissors, and razor. It is also features two lancets on the bowl, indicating it may have also been used for bleeding patients.

Fact

The circular depression in the rim may have held a ball of soap, or perhaps was a thumb hold.