Item specifics. Back to home page Return to top. More to explore :. Condition: -- not specified. Ended: Dec 14, PST. For additional information, see the Global Shipping Program terms and conditions - opens in a new window or tab See details. Since antiquity in Greece, Rome and Syria, leeches have been used to suck blood from many sites on the body. Leeches have both male and female sex organs fun fact of the day.
Leeches were carried in a variety of containers that are now sought after by collectors. Figure 32 shows two glass containers. The small one was for several leeches while the bigger bowl may have been used to dish out the leeches in a pharmacy. Note the everted lip of both containers. These were used to attach a cloth to prevent escapees. Of note, there is some controversy as to whether the larger type of container was actually used as a fish bowl.
Some were on pedestals and there is evidence for both types of use. The two small pewter containers pictured in figure 33 are portable leech carriers. I call them "leech mailboxes" as the front door flips down to gain access to the leech. Note the holes in this door. This allowed the leeches to get enough air. Physicians may have put a few leeches in this pocket-sized container for house calls. Perhaps the most beautiful leech containers are the large decorative ceramic containers with multi-colored floral and other motifs.
These often are inscribed "leeches" in decorative lettering. They date to the mid th century for the most part. Figure 34 shows a fine example. Once again, one must be cautious in purchasing these as reproductions are now commonplace.
The thousands of dollars that an original costs have made these repros very well done! A variety of unusual "mechanical leeches" were made in the 19 th century. Figure 35 shows a rare patent model for an artificial leech made by Frederick Wolf in The spring was tightened and by a turning motion the cuts were made just as a leech would. The top of the device is then pulled back to evacuate the blood by suction. These devices were cumbersome to use and not popular for very long.
As with all antiques over the last 20 years, bloodletting antiques have become harder to find. As mentioned several times, one must be very careful to avoid reproductions, which are becoming more commonplace.
Some English dealers have gutted wooden boxes, relined them with old looking velvet, and made a "custom" cupping set which looks genuine and original. There are specialty medical antique dealers and auction houses that have medical sales in the US and Europe. One can pay top dollar buying this way.
A more reasonable way to get started is to scour country sales and local estate auctions. Cupping sets do appear from time to time as do spring lancets and scarificators. Often no one knows what these were used for and the price is quite low. I am a very active collector of all sorts of pre bloodletting antiques in excellent condition. Over the years I have acquired most of the more common examples of the types things I reviewed in this paper. However, I am very seriously looking for unusual bloodletting devices, leeching items, and cased cupping sets.
I purchase items individually or by the collection and am always eager to hear from other collectors. I do have some items for trade as well. Thank you very much! Medical Antiques Index. Contact Dr. Arbittier with questions or if you have Civil War medical related items for sale. Jan 13, PST. This item was listed in the fixed price format with a Best Offer option.
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