Description

Offered for for sale is this lovely Antique Victorian Trepanning saw (trephine) with ebony handle circa 1870.

The depth of the cut is adjustable with the small screw on the main shaft.  The saw is very sharp.

Brief history:   Ah, the trepanning saw – because sometimes, opening someone’s skull was just what the doctor ordered. Used from ancient times right up through the 19th century, this charmingly terrifying tool was once the go-to gadget for everything from “letting out the bad spirits” to relieving pressure after head injuries (or a really bad day).

Skull bothering began as early as 7,000 BC, but it wasn’t until the surgical minds of Europe got involved that someone said, “You know what this needs? Teeth. Lots of little saw teeth.” Enter the trepanning saw – part circular saw, part medieval nightmare, all business.

Whether you were a battlefield surgeon, a barber with ambition, or just someone with too many leeches and not enough cranial access, this was your instrument.

Today, it’s retired from skull service and enjoys a more peaceful life as a collectible conversation starter—perfect for anyone who likes their antiques with a sharp sense of humour.

Period:  Victorian, 19th century
Style: Victorian
Material:  Ebony handle, steel saw, blued hardened metal sections for the depth adjuster lid wood (most likely fruit wood)

Height: 13cm 
Width:  11cm 
Depth:  2.5cm 

Condition: Fine to exceptional.

Shipping  and shipping costs:  The listed price does not include shipping costs.  Please contact us for shipping costs to your location.  To ensure the item arrives safe and sound, we only use reputable couriers with tracking, insurance, and signature required.