Is this an Antique Airbrush?

[Kent Schlawin]

Hello: Found this item in a box of late 19th century medical instruments. But it looks like a mouth-powered airbrush. The small round top comes off so something can be inserted into the lower chamber.
Would appreciate any input. Thanks very much. Two photos attached.

 

[DaveG]

I've not found one exactly like it, but I am pretty sure that is a nebulizer.

 

[Robbyrockett2]

You're certainly close. Its an atomizer. Similar design to some devilbiss atomizers....recognize the name? yep thats how devilbiss started.
Probably would have had a rubber bulb and hose attached to the bulbous end.

 

[Kent Schlawin]

This makes sense since it was with a bunch of other old medical devices. Thanks for the help!

 

[Robbyrockett2]

Now you just need some castor oil and cocaine to load it up with...... wait... probably no need to get all that authentic.

 

[Kent Schlawin]

LOL! I work at an outdoor museum here in Iowa, explaining 1875 medicine to visitors -- I'm guessing the cocaine might cause me to not be asked back this season...!

 

[Robbyrockett2]

LOL! I work at an outdoor museum here in Iowa, explaining 1875 medicine to visitors -- I'm guessing the cocaine might cause me to not be asked back this season...!

Or the museum might get realllly popular

 

[Kent Schlawin]

Genius fundraising idea!!

 

[Franc Kaiser]

Who says surgery in the old times wasn’t a lot of fun?

 

[SiRoxx]

That’s cool! What a great find.