American dental chair
We have recently acquired this fascinating dental chair made by the Harvard Dental Company, Canton, Ohio.
The high back rest is typical of an American style dental chair but the most intriguing element of this chair is its ability to easily fully recline. It has an adjustable headrest and footrest, arm restraints and its four legs attach to original castors. Manufactured just before the introduction of the hydraulic chairs we think it dates from the 1890s. Further research is needed to clarify whether it was designed for surgical purposes too.
As you can see the chair is in desperate need of conservation work. Although complete, the leather upholstery is very fragile and dirty and the metal work, despite being in working order is rusting and needs cleaning and stabilising.
This is a time consuming and expensive task for a specialist conservator.
Whilst we assess its condition and raise funds for its conservtion work, the chair is on display in the museum.
Please come and visit us to take a look.
We still have a number of other objects that are in vital need of restoration work, if you would like to help, please consider making a donation to the
Stanley Gelbier Conservation and Acquisition Fund.
