Place unknown, presumably as of 1904

As a treatment of the dangerous disease tuberculosis, which was widespread at the time, «Freiluftkuren» [outdoor therapies] in a high-altitude climate used to play an important role. Countless people from all over the world spent months or even years on the terraces of Graubünden’s health resorts between 1870 and 1950, hoping for a cure.

Since the coughed-up sputum of tuberculosis patients was highly contagious, they had to carry a pocket spittoon with them at all times. Because of its colour, which discreetly hid the contents, this model was named «Blauer Heinrich» [blue Henry]. This is also the name of a large collection of objects from the former Davos Sanatorium Schatzalp, which is on permanent loan to the Museum.