What is the pear of anguish?

The pear of anguish is a torture device that originated in Europe during the Middle Ages. It typically consists of four metal leaves that are joined together at the top and can be opened and closed by turning a screw. The device was designed to be inserted into a person's mouth, anus, or vagina and then expanded, causing extreme pain and often resulting in severe injury or death. It was used primarily for punishing those suspected of heresy, witchcraft, treason, or other crimes against the state or church. The pear of anguish was often accompanied by physical torture and other forms of cruel punishment, and was outlawed in many countries by the late 18th century. Today, replicas of the device are commonly used for educational purposes and are displayed in museums around the world.