An Early 19th Century Trepanning Set. Netherlands, first half 19th century. This set is contained in its original mahogany case, and lined in red velvet with brass hinges. Present is a complete trepanation set of polished steel tools with silver mounts, and polished agate handles, the scalpel and razor, of later date, the hinged cover set with a plaque reading "Instrument Kasten, Trepanatie, Theatrum Anatomicum". Measurement: 8,5 x 38 x 22 cm. catalogue Note: Trepanning – which comes from the Greek word 'trypanon', meaning a device for boring holes – is the oldest-known surgical procedure, and possibly one of the most grim. Trepanning is a process whereby a hole is drilled in the skull, and, with evidence going back to prehistoric times, it is one of the oldest surgical practices in history. The earliest trepanned skull was discovered at a Neolithic burial site in France, and is more than 7,000 years old. Literature: Estimate: 2000-3000