Anyone recognize this glass item?

[nhbenz]

I can't figure this one out, as there are no markings on it. It measures 2-3/4" at the widest point and the same height. Found it while raking the yard of my house, built around 1900. Thanks. -Ben

 

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[stoney56]

Not sure, wonder if it's like a porch light globe to protect a light bulb.

 

[ashleen]

hmm...pretty small...good size for a shot glass...not with that edge, tho.
don't have a clue,,,but i like it

 

[reallygruvin]

Possibly an Ink Well for a pen. I have seen them that big before. Most would have a Sterling or clad type cover which fit around that lip at the top. ??.

 

[southbound]

Looks old and in good shape.
Vern

 

[dano91]

Looks like an old salve or ointment jar.
Dano.

 

[PBK]

Ben, it's a medical cupping glass, used as a suction device back in the days of therapeutic bloodletting. The cup or glass was heated, then the mouth of it was pressed onto the cut or lesion. As the glass cooled, a mild vacuum was created, providing suction to the area.

http://www.pbs.org/wnet/redgold/basics/bloodlettinghistory3.html

http://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item=7396944874&category=1210

BTW, they are still being made and sold, mainly through outlets for acupuncture and alternative medicine supplies. For example:

http://www.acu-market.com/prodinfo.asp?number=CUP

 

[reallygruvin]

Does it have a seam? Is the glass wavy? If it has a seam does it fade out when it gets close to the top lip?

 

[EDDE]

damn pbk i was going to say that also just didnt know its "term" you are the man!

 

[reallygruvin]

good research PBK.

 

[Gypsy Heart]

How cool is that Ben? What a unique find! Do you live in a Doctors house? Love the research you and PBK both do for this forum! You guys rock..thanks for posting that find.

 

[Burdie]

We are in the presence of geniuses! WTG all of you. HH Burdie

 

[nhbenz]

Thanks PBK, that's interesting stuff! The only previous owner I know of was a old lady who a tax clerk, but I don't know if perhaps her husband had been a doctor? This does have a seam, which stops at the lip, and then the lip has its own seam, so I gather it was applied seperately. It does not have a pontil mark that would indicate it was blown glass. The glass is wavy. Thanks for all the input! -Ben

 

[MD]

I would have thought it to be a pedestal for a serving tray.