Topic: Leech / Cupping bowl ?

[Alfies Dad]

Can anyone help with the date and maker if that is possible, I think this is a Leech bowl?..   Measure's a little over 2" high, sharp pontil mark and does have a fair amount of base wear

Robert.

[ju1i3]

Yes it is a leech pot. That's what I call them anyway. Some people call them leech jars or leech bowls.

I could only date from the snapped off pontil mark, colour and ribbing (1850-ish?) although I'm not an expert. Others could tell you more. I don't think the earlier ones had the ribbing.

If it was well used it should have scratches inside as well from trying to get the leeches out.

[Alfies Dad]

Thanks Julie,

I didn't realise it was that old, Its not really that scratched inside so maybe very little use.

Do you know what origins, or who might of made them?

Robert

[ju1i3]

My understanding is that there were many local glass workshops turning out household pieces like this which were sold relatively inexpensively on the High St so it would be impossible to say where it was made and by who.

I hope if anyone else knows more they will let us know.

[Paul S.]

Can't say I know anything about these articles, but you might see something of interest here:       http://collectmedicalantiques.com/gallery/bleeding.........and a simple google will, I'm sure, bring up more of interest.