The”Whole Face Ophthalmophantome” was an instructional device used circa 1900 by ophthalmology students to hone their surgical skills.
The adjustable model consists of a black painted composition mask on brass linkage with adjustable clamps mounted to a round iron base. Two spring mounted brass eyeholders with pincers would hold pig eyes for future ophthalmologists to practice their craft before operating on human patients.
Poor pigs…
This particular one was recently auctioned with a price estimated at $800-$1,200. Looks kind of like a paint mask for spraying sofubi and otherwise like a creepy torture device. Either way: it’s a win for your collection!
I came across it here. There’s a little more info on pphthalmophantomes here.
