The leather case is inscribed “Traŭnichtesbeißt” which translated literally from German reads “Do not trust it bites”.

The inside is suede lined and ornately embroidered, but with signs of ageing. The lancet has delicate floral engraving on one side. It has not been cleaned and is in excellent working condition. A similar piece from c 1700 is shown on page 49 of Elisabeth Bennion’s book Antique Medical Instruments.

• From the Phisick collection