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Science Museum Group Collection
© The Board of Trustees of the Science Museum
Aluminium artificial leg for amputation above the right knee, 1901-1940
A mixture of wood, leather and light metal was used to construct this artificial leg. It was made for someone who had their leg amputated above the knee. The calf and foot of the leg are made from an alloy of aluminium. This is lightweight but durable. The thigh socket is made from mahogany with a perforated metal cover. This allows air to circulate so the wearer will not get too hot. The foot of the leg is shaped as if wearing a shoe. It gives the leg a more realistic appearance.
Details
- Category:
- Orthopaedics
- Collection:
- Sir Henry Wellcome's Museum Collection
- Object Number:
- A500472
- Materials:
- structure, aluminium (alloy), calf & foot, leather, covering, thigh socket, mahogany, lining and strap, canvas
- type:
- artificial leg
- credit:
- Aberdeen Hospital
