| Description | This is a set of cupping instruments in a case. The mahogany box, with brass details, opens by lifting its hinged lid. Once opened, it reveals a red velvet-lined lid.
The main body of the case, also lined in red velvet, contains compartments housing two clear glass cups, inserted in a white cloth cover, an empty bottle, a cork-sealedvial with white powder, and a metal spirit lamp. An additional compartment can be opened, revealing three circular red and white paper boxes of different sizes, now empty. An extra fabric cover is present, suggesting the set was probably completed with a third cupping glass (possibly broken due to debris present).
The case is fitted with a key lock; however, the key is missing.
The spirit lamp features a hollow tube of metal, in which a cotton wick is inserted, ending with a finger ring. The cork-sealed vial is still intact and possibly contains salt, as the powder appears as white, translucent crystals. Nineteenth-century medical kits often included salts for their versatility in treatments and remedies. The empty stoppered bottle is made of clear glass and features a label with black ink writing: "John H. Lee, Apothecary & Chemist, Medical Hall, Main Street, Carrick-on-Suir." Additional handwriting reads: "Medicated spirit of wine."
This set was used for cupping therapy, which involved placing heated cups on the skin to create suction, helping with pain relief, inflammation, and blood flow. The cups were left in place for a few minutes before being removed, leaving circular marks that usually faded within a few days. |