Pottery leech jar, Europe, 1801-1900

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Attribution 4.0 International (CC BY 4.0)

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Pottery leech jar, Europe, 1801-1900. Science Museum, London. Attribution 4.0 International (CC BY 4.0). Source: Wellcome Collection.

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Leeches were used in bloodletting. They were gathered from streams and sold on by apothecaries who would have used jars like this to store them. The sides of the jar have tiny holes to allow the leeches to breathe. The lid is held shut with an iron clasp to prevent the leeches escaping. Leeches are a type of worm with suckers at both ends of the body and they suck blood until their bodies are engorged. Leeches are sometimes used today following plastic and reconstructive surgery as they help restore blood flow and circulation. maker: Unknown maker Place made: Europe

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