Centuries ago, caring for horses required both knowledge and specialized implements, some of which now seem foreign or even startling. Among these is a small, handheld device designed for a precise and deliberate task: accessing the flow of blood for therapeutic purposes.
Crafted from metal, with a pair of sharp blades aligned carefully on a frame, the instrument was used on the veins of horses. The practitioner would position the blades against the chosen vein, then gently strike the back with a small stick, allowing the blades to make a controlled incision. This method, though archaic by modern standards, was part of a long tradition of veterinary medicine aimed at maintaining balance and health in the animal.
The design itself reflects remarkable ingenuity: a compact, durable tool capable of precision under circumstances that demanded both speed and accuracy. It was simple yet effective, built to be handled quickly in the field and resilient enough to endure repeated use.
Though the practice it facilitated has largely vanished with advances in veterinary science, the instrument remains a fascinating window into historical methods of animal care. Its presence in collections today tells a story of hands-on skill, practical problem solving, and the sometimes surprising ingenuity applied to everyday work with horses.
