This obstetrical wax model describes the use of forceps in a vertex presentation with the fetus in left occiput anterior position. The forceps are applied to the median portion of the pelvic cavity. The occiput has not yet rotated and the sagittal suture faces the transverse diameter. The forceps blades are turned toward the occiput and the umbilical cord is broken. The same situation is shown in wax model XVIII.48.

The model was commissioned by Felice Fontana, who was working on the installation of the Museo di Fisica e Storia Naturale of Florence, from the sculptor Giuseppe Ferrini and his assistant Clemente Susini.