Cephalotribes appeared during the early 19th century and were widely used by mid-century.  They were powerful devices with a screw and large wing nut on the handles producing great force to effectively crush the head.  Given their design they were also used as extractors.  Despite their robust designs and unwieldiness they none-the-less became remarkably popular.  Credit for the original instrument is generally ascribed to Assalini with its strong screw capable of exerting considerable force.