These European parturition (or birthing) chairs were used by women in ancient times until the 1800s, during childbirth. This convertible chair has arm and foot rests, which can be adjusted for comfort and can also be folded down into a bed or operating table. These chairs were treated as heirlooms in some families and passed down through the generations. The modern equivalent is still used in some countries.
Santa's bag is broken, let's come and catch the falling gifts as many as we can!
It’s hard to recognise this girl as the same person without her blue hair and piercings. Which look do you prefer?
Pedro Pimenta lost all four of his limbs to meningitis but was determined not to let that hold him back. Here is his story of triumph over adversity as captured in pictures.
This is a selection of photos taken from popular, Russian social networking sites.
Which one are you?
• Don't insult other visitors. Offensive comments will be deleted without warning.
• Comments are accepted in English only.
• No swearing words in comments, otherwise such comments will be censored.
• Your nickname and avatar are randomly selected. If you don't post comments for 7 days, they both are reset.
• To choose another avatar, click the ‘Random avatar’ link.
