L0057439 Glass cup, Roman, 251-450 CE

L0057439 Glass cup, Roman, 251-450 CE
Credit: Science Museum, London. Wellcome Images
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Cupping is the practice of placing heated cups or vessels like this on the body to draw out any impurities and bring blood to the surface of the skin. This is known as dry cupping. Wet cupping is when the welts left on the body are cut to let blood flow out. It was believed that this would re-balance the humours and restore a person to health. There is also a possibility that this glass was used for drinking, although it may have been used for both purposes.

maker: Unknown maker

Place made: Roman Republic and Empire
made: 251-450 CE Published: –

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