Spring Fleam with Case, Early 19th Century

A spring fleam in a leather covered case. The wooden case is covered with red leather and has a soft leather hinge and a metal clasp. Inside, the case is lined with green velvet and has a recess which holds part of the fleam.

The iron and copper alloy spring fleam is in a triangular shape, with a lever which has notches in it to hold the arm with the blade in place against the metal spring-action, before pressing to release. The fleam was probably used for veterinary bleeding.