All Objects Record
Images
Metadata
Object Name |
Ultraviolet Ray Generator |
Object ID |
2015.044.34.01 |
Date |
pre-1951 |
Description |
2015.044.34.01: Black vulcanized rubber tube with conical end to hold different glass electrodes. From base of the cylinder a black fabric-covered cord leads to the black box covered in faux leather which contains the magnetic coils. Also connected to this box is the chord to be plugged into outlet. 2015.044.34.02(General Electrode): metal electrode with circular glass head. 2015.044.34.03 (Comb-Rake Electrode): metal electrode with rake-like glass head. Meant for scalp treatment of hair loss, dandruff, graying hair and "stimulating hair cells" according to instruction manual. 2015.044.34.04 (Throat Electrode): metal electrode curved ‘T’-shaped glass head. Meant for throat treatment of "Goiter, Tonsillitis [and] double chin" according to instruction manual. 2015.044.34.05 (Instruction Manual): "The Master Violet Ray" instruction manual. Includes an Introduction , information about UV rays, methods of applying, effects, models and electrodes by Master Violet Ray Instruments and various ‘ailments’ it was to be used for. 2015.044.34.06 (box): Wood box with faux leather exterior and red fabric interior. Its hinges and clasps are rusted. Silver text on inside of lid of box identifies it as the Master Violet Ray No. 11 2015.044.34.01 (UV Ray Instrument); 2015.044.34.02 (General Electrode) ; 2015.044.34.03 (Comb-Rake Electrode); 2015.044.34.04 (Throat Electrode) ; 2015.044.34.05 (Instruction Manual) ; 2015.044.34.06 (box) |
Dimension Details |
2015.044.34.01: 248.5x10x6.5 (extended) 2015.044.34.02(General Electrode): 6x5x11 2015.044.34.03 (Comb-Rake Electrode): 5.5x9x12.5 2015.044.34.04 (Throat Electrode): 1x7.5x14 2015.044.34.05 (Instruction Manual): 22x12x0.5 2015.044.34.06 (box): 28x34x23 |
Materials |
Metal/Wood/Faux Leather/Rubber/Glass/Fabric/Paper/Ink |
Manufacturer |
Manufacturer Label: Master Violet Ray Instruments, 421 South Market Street, Chicago |
Inscription Type |
Other Markings |
Inscription Text |
Silver text on inside of lid of box identifies it as the Master Violet Ray No. 11 |
People |
Smith, Elizabeth |
Owned By |
Smith, Elizabeth |
Donated By |
Smith, Dr. Elizabeth |
MeSH Search Terms |
Therapeutics Phototherapy Ultraviolet Therapy Ultraviolet Rays Electric Stimulation Therapy |
Classification |
Electricity Electrotherapy |
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. |