George Tiemann and Company Exhibition Surgical Set

Description:

George Tiemann and Company Exhibition Surgical Set, 67 Chatham Street, New York, 1876, ruby-set mother-of-pearl-handled implements including a large and small bone saw, the larger engraved on the blade Geo. Tiemann & Co./1876/New York, four surgical knives of different sizes with engraved decoration, a capillary hook, nippers and tweezers-forceps all stamped with maker's name, fitted compartments with tourniquet, needles, wire sutures, and lidded container with eight additional rubies all in a felt-lined, silver-bound, rosewood carrying case with original gilt leather maker's tag inside stating G. Tiemann & Co., Manufacturers of Surgical Instruments, 67 Chatham St., N.Y., inset Gothic boss on lid, escutcheon, lock and key.

Note: Tiemann & Company was prominent exhibitor in 1876 at the Centennial International Exhibition in Philadelphia. An extract from the General Report of the Judges states in part, "The largest collection of instruments was exhibited by Messrs. Tiemann & Co., of New York. It embraced almost every instrument used by the surgeon in general or special practice, and some entirely new. In material, workmanship and exquisite finish, they could not be excelled."
Estimate $80,000-100,000

George Tiemann & Co. of New York City created this set for the 1876 Philadelphia Centennial. The set was on display during the entire Exposition, May 10 through November 10, 1876. This was the first World's Fair held in the United States. This is the only set ever created and celebrated both the 100th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence, as well as the 50th anniversary of George Tiemann & Co. The set is heavily engraved. The handles are mother-of-pearl, inlayed with a total of 42 cut rubellite gemstones! There is a tiny box hidden in the set which contains 8 more rubellite gemstones for a total of 50, which represents the 50th anniversary of the company. The blades are stainless steel and retain their mirror-like finish. Portions of the instruments have a 24-karat gold overlay. The set is in complete unused condition, and even retains its surgical needles. The fine rosewood box has brass fittings and sterling silver cartouches on the top and the front. You will note some reflections in the blades due to the mirror-like finish.

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