16 objects from the past, the purpose of which will have to rack your brain (17 photos)

These items are distinguished not only by their functionality, but also by their unique design or unusual shape, which can confuse even vintage connoisseurs.





If you show them to ordinary modern people, they will obviously have difficulty even identifying them, because the everyday world around us has long ago changed beyond recognition. Do you want to test your intuition? We invite you to take a look at some antique household items and guess what purpose they were intended for.

Strange pocket watch with a lever and an atypical dial



This is what pocket roulette looked like in those days when gambling was strictly prohibited.

An incomprehensible contraption in an old St. Petersburg apartment





This is a pre-revolutionary women's urinal. Yes, it is concreted, but the main features are quite clear.

A small metal decorative item that gets very hot when plugged in



This is an electric cigarette lighter. If you connect it to power and turn it over, it will heat up.

Look what a wonderful and unusual stove has been preserved in one apartment in St. Petersburg



Firstly, it is free-standing, it has a wooden stand on round legs, and tiles are laid out along the entire perimeter, including on the back wall. Secondly, it is unusually located - right in the hallway. Of course, it cannot be ruled out that it was once moved here, but it is connected to a chimney in the main wall, that is, some kind of stove was here when the house was built.

Do you think these are some kind of tools?



No, these are antique baby rattles. Probably getting hit on the head with one of these is still a pleasure.

Strange plastic thing with no identification marks



This is the “eternal pill.” A special “medicine” for repeated use, made from antimony. Previously, it was believed that antimony was an excellent cleansing agent. Such a pill was swallowed and waited for its natural release. The “medicine” could then be used by another family member. The “eternal pill” was purchased in one copy and passed on by inheritance.

Strange disco cube with small internal mirrors



This is a vintage candlestick.

Old wardrobe?



No, this is a very fancy refrigerator from the 30s.

Ceramic jar that opens only from the side



This is a ceramic or clay heating pad, into which hot water was poured. Often used in hospitals.

A miracle device that looks like a medical device



In fact, this is an extremely rare device that was used to record the sounds of reptiles and amphibians.

Any guesses what it is?



This is what a pocket watch with a camera from 1886 looks like. They were the forerunners of the spy camera - a mechanism disguised as another object.

What kind of measuring device is this?



This is a postal scale

Rusty thing with green glass spheres



This is what a road reflector used to look like in the 30s and 40s.

Reminds me of some item of clothing or decoration



In front of you is camping equipment. The board, by the way, is also included in this kit.

Bulb?



This is a fire extinguisher. Yes, this device is difficult to compare in terms of efficiency with modern fire extinguishing systems. But it was used for quite a long time. This fire extinguisher contained carbon tetrachloride or brine inside. This thing was hung in places with the greatest risk of fire.

Metal globe? What is this?



These are dishes for serving butter or caviar. The hooks on the front are designed to secure a knife and spoon.