This obstetrical wax model shows a "high forceps" or extrapelvic application. The situation resembles the one shown in wax model XVIII.47. Modern prerequisites for the use of forceps are a complete dilation of the uterine mouth, compatibility of size between the fetus and the maternal pelvis, ruptured membranes, and the fetus in vertex presentation with its head deeply engaged in the pelvic cavity.

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.