Description

A very good example of Dudgeon’s sphygmograph in excellent cosmetic and mechanical condition. The clockwork mechanism works well.  The interior of the case show some wear. The silk lining of the interior of the lid is frayed resulting in the maker’s name being illegible. Probably made in England. Case dimensions”: (closed): 53 mm x 70 mm x 70 mm. The last image is from an illustration in The sphygmograph : its history and use as an aid to diagnosis in ordinary practice by Robert Ellis Dudgeon,  London, 1882.

London Science Museum Group notes:

“Force, rate and variations in the pulse were recorded using a sphygmograph. The first practical version was devised in 1860 by French physician Etienne-Jules Marey (1830-1904). English physician and homeopath Robert Ellis Dudgeon (1820-1904) introduced this new, highly portable sphygmograph in 1881. It was strapped to the wrist. The pulse at the wrist caused a metal strip to move a stylus. This transmitted a record of the pulse onto smoked paper. It created a record of blood pressure and pulse over time… Dudgeon’s instrument quickly became popular because it was compact and easy to use”

https://collection.sciencemuseumgroup.org.uk/objects/co90863/dudgeon-sphygmograph