Description

An antique ceramic douche “Irrigateur Eguisier” dating from circa 1850. This was initially designed for rinsing bodily orifices including the ear, bladder, sinuses and intestines but quickly became the apparatus of choice to be used as a vaginal douche for contraceptive purpose, whilst unreliable there were few other choices at the time. 

The instructions for use are shown inside the lid and translate to, “1. Close the tap. 2. Pour in the liquid. 3. Turn the key to the right. 4. Open the tap.”. The rinsing fluid would pass through  controllable pump system to a hose, the pump mechanism made the douche  independent of gravity and water pressure was easily controlled. The used rinsing fluid would run into a waterproof pan over the edge of the bed and into a bucket. Buildings rarely had interior bathrooms at the time and it was necessary to use the douche immediately after intercourse.

The Irrigateur Eguisier was invented by Parisian Doctor Maurice Eguisier in 1843.

The douche stands 24cm (9.45″) high and the base has a diameter of 10cm (3.94″). Untested and sold as a medical curiosity. This example includes the rubber tube and ebony fitment, the tube is not attached to the tap but can easily be fitted if you wish to do so.