All Objects Record
Metadata
Object Name |
Ultraviolet Ray Generator |
Object ID |
2015.022.34.01-02 |
Date |
20th Century |
Description |
2015.022.34.01 A black leatherette case chipped at corners, metal clamps and lock are rusted which has corroded the strap. Inside of case is lined with red adhesive paper. Two clips in top hold electrode in place when not in use. Case has two compartments, one for wand that connects to electrode and the other for cords. Black control panel has six flathead screws and black plastic control knob. Label reads "Violet Ray Instruments The Standard of the World, Handled Exclusively by The Douglass Institute of Drugless Healing, 247 Hillsdale Ave. East, Toronto, ONT., Volts 110, Watts 110, No. 39" The voltage, wattage, and No. are etched in rudimentarily. A black fabric lined power cord extends from the inside compartment, it has two intertwined wires leading to an uncapped plug with two prongs. A thick black fabric cord also comes from the inside compartment. This cord, hardened with age, connects to the black cylinder with a tapered end which hooks into the electrode; 2015.022.34.02 a glass electrode with a metal tip on one end that hooks into black wand, The other end is circular, parts of the glass are yellowed. |
Components |
2015.022.34.01 UV Ray Machine and Electrode Holder; 2015.022.34.02 Electrode |
Dimension Details |
2015.022.34.01 11.5x26x15 (case) 124 length power cord, 140 length wand and power cord (curled), 20x4.5x4.5 wand; 2015.022.34.02 5.5x4x13.5 |
Materials |
Leatherette/Paper/Metal/Plastic/Fabric/Glass |
Manufacturer |
Manufacturer Label: Violet Ray Instruments Distributor Label: Douglass Institute of Drugless Healing, Toronto Ontario |
Owned By |
Smith, Dr. David (1934-2013) UWO Medical School Graduate in 1962, ENT Docto |
Donated By |
Smith, Dr. Elizabeth (b. 1937) UWO Medical School Graduate in 1962 |
MeSH Search Terms |
Therapeutics Phototherapy Ultraviolet Therapy Ultraviolet Rays Electric Stimulation Therapy |
Classification |
Electricity Electrotherapy |
Related Publications |
P2015.022A-B |
Research Notes |
Beginning in the late 19th century, legitimate physicians and quack doctors alike began promoting the "curative and restorative powers" of electricity. Parallel to the rise in these devices becoming affordable consumer products, effective advertising marketed these deceptive products to potential customers. Claiming to cure every ailment that plagued modern life, these devices offered quick and fashionable fixes for most aches, pains, or personal dysfunctions. It is a handheld machine, with interchangeable glass applicators. When in use, the bulbs produced a stream of violet-coloured light, rapid vibration, and heat. Given the internal and intimate nature of this device, they were commonly targeted towards women. |