Trephination Bow used in trepanning experiments, 1930-1970

Trephination Bow used in trepanning experiments, 1930-1970. A bow used by Dr T W Parry between 1930 and 1970 for experiments on neolithic trepanning techniques. Trepanning was the ancient practice of cutting holes in the skull, probably with the intention of releasing evil spirits or demons from the mind, which were believed to be responsible for causing mental problems or headaches. The bow was made of springy wood, with a leather thong wound around the drill. The drill tip was positioned on the head and the bow was ïsawed to and fro, spinning the drill one way and then the other, boring it into the bone. ©SSPL/Science Museum