An earthenware lidded ‘Leeches’ jar

A wonderful and extremely rare mid century earthenware copy of a 19th century apothecary ‘leech’ jar.

This single earthenware domed jar is richly decorated in blue and gilt on a cream ground. We love its big, bold design.

It really is a superb, large piece.

This ‘Leeches’ jar features on the ‘Science History Institute Museum and Library’:

“Leeches have been used in medicine since ancient times. During the Victorian era, French physician Francois-Joseph-Victor Broussais sparked a boom in the leech trade with his popular theory that diet, bloodletting, and the application of leeches could treat all disease. It is for this reason that the period was known as the time of “leechmania.”

Bloodletting is a dangerous practice involving the draining of a patient’s blood flow. It was believed that weakening the body through the reduction of blood flow treated a variety of disorders, especially fevers and inflammatory diseases. Medicinal leeches, bloodsucking aquatic worms with unusual mouth structures and special saliva that serves as both an anesthetic and anticoagulant, were used along with such surgical instruments as lancets and fleams to drain blood. This white leech jar with blue and gold details is a modern example based on leech jars from the previous century. The lid has a series of holes that allow for air.

Typically leech jars feature an elaborate presentation, which indicate the high value leeches held as a commodity during this period. They were sold in great numbers to members of both the medical profession and the public. At the height of this fad, elaborately decorated leech jars could be found in apothecary shops as well as in parlors.”

You won’t see another so add this to your collection now!

Please note: the ‘Honey’ jar has sold.

Dimensions:

All approximate

Leeches- Height 40cm

Metal skull seen is life size for scale

Condition:

Where there are specific points to note we will detail these as far as possible but please be aware that all our items have wear commensurate with age and are as seen in the photographs. If you require any specific information please do not hesitate to get in contact. As seen in the images, but not limited to: some rubbing to the gilt.

Collection only

Please note: This item cannot be shipped but we have an excellent and competitive bespoke courier service. Please email us for more information or a quote. If you wish to collect in person, or to use our courier service, please select "Pick up" at checkout.