tools of a hobby-ist dentist
"My dad’s dad was a "hobby-ist" dentist in the early 1900’s. That's right, it wasn't his actual vocation. He was so interested in learning about dentistry he even made some of the tools of the trade in his work shop. Other pieces he got in exchange for doing work on cars that belonged to "real" dentists, the rest he purchased."
So begins the story of how the grandfather I never knew performed dentistry on my dad and his six siblings in the early 1900's. From as far back as I can remember I was captivated by the mysterious oak case that contained the most distinctive, yet unusual smell and contents. I would ask my dad again and again to tell me about how the foot-pedal drill was used and what it felt like. I spent countless hours exploring the case and trying to get that pedal drill going.
Time hasn't changed the case nor its contents, other than some minor deterioration of the tools and potions inside. As I'm now its keeper, I still get to open and explore it. The years of my curiosity which have culminated in a series of images, some shown below.
Prints available in a variety of sizes.
7 x 7 softcover book $25 (+shipping)
Contact me for details.
So begins the story of how the grandfather I never knew performed dentistry on my dad and his six siblings in the early 1900's. From as far back as I can remember I was captivated by the mysterious oak case that contained the most distinctive, yet unusual smell and contents. I would ask my dad again and again to tell me about how the foot-pedal drill was used and what it felt like. I spent countless hours exploring the case and trying to get that pedal drill going.
Time hasn't changed the case nor its contents, other than some minor deterioration of the tools and potions inside. As I'm now its keeper, I still get to open and explore it. The years of my curiosity which have culminated in a series of images, some shown below.
Prints available in a variety of sizes.
7 x 7 softcover book $25 (+shipping)
Contact me for details.
