The leeches were sold to a pharmacist or physician, who kept them in large jars. To stop the little blighters from escaping, cloth was tied over the top and, to facilitate that, the rims of the jars were turned out to form a pronounced lip. In order to allow a physician to take just a few leeches out on his calls, rather than carry the whole stock around, smaller versions of the pots were made. Blood-letting became so popular that many ordinary people bought these small jars of leeches and kept them at home, rather like we keep a box of paracetamol handy today
Most leech pots were produced at the end of the day, hand-blown in glass factories, using left-over glass. Because there was no need for them to look ornamental and pretty, the quality control was somewhat lax; the pots are often lop-sided and there are often air-bubbles and other imperfections in the glass. They would come in a variety of colours and shades but always in a reasonably consistent, portable, size
Prominent pucella marks
Rough, broken pontil to base
Base and surface wear commensurate with age
There are a few tiny pieces of white stone embedded into the glass
Excellent condition. No chips, cracks or restoration. Please examine photos carefully as these are part of the condition description
Height: 6.4cm
Weight: 91g
We are always happy to combine postage on multiple purchases
Small items will usually be sent, within the UK, via Royal Mail. Larger items will usually be sent, within the UK, via InPost or Yodel. We do NOT use Evri (the "new" Hermes")