Male infibulation / [Eric John Dingwall].

  • Eric Dingwall
Date:
1925
Catalogue details

Licence: In copyright

Credit: Male infibulation / [Eric John Dingwall]. Source: Wellcome Collection.

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    The above extract is the fullest and most detailed account that has come down to us from early times, and nearly all subsequent authors in their mention of infibulation either directly refer to Celsus, or base any observations they may make upon the description borrowed from him. From reading the passage a fairly clear idea is obtained as to the method of performing the operation, and a hint is given as to why it was used and for what purpose. The prepuce having been drawn forward, marks are made upon it on either side, in such a manner that when the foreskin is released these marks do not return over the glans. If on trying this the glans remain free, then this will be the proper place for applying the fibula. Then, where the marks are, holes are drilled with a needle and thread, the two loose ends being tied together and run through the holes daily till they are healed, leaving only two little orifices on either side. The thread is then taken out and the fibula attached, the lighter this apparatus is the better. The reason for the operation, which according to Celsus was performed on youths, is that it is done some¬ times on account of their voice and sometimes for the sake of their health, interdum vocis, interdum valetudinis Causa. With this short account Celsus closes, merely remarking with regard to the custom that it is more often useless than necessary. It will be noticed that he does not give us any idea as to the nature of the fibula, its shape, size or material, the only characteristic being that the lighter it is the more convenient will it be found. The first question that presents itself is as to the they are a later interpolation is, however, doubtful, and their meaning fits in so well with all we know of the custom, that we can well follow the editions which incorporate them as a definite part of the original scheme. Of. L. Marie, “ Etude sur la fibule des Satyriques latins,” Union Med., Paris, 1864, 2 s., xxi, 481-488. Cf. also for further information on the whole question pp. 492-494; 518-519; 566-568 ; J. Rhodius, De Ada dissertatio ad C. Celsi inentem (Patavii, 1639), p. 65.
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