Images(2)

Steak or Ember Tongs

Dateca.1750-1820

OriginAmerica or Great Britain

MediumIron/steel

DimensionsOverall: 48.6cm (19 1/8in.)

Credit LineGift of Michael Weber

Object number2016-100

DescriptionSpring-form tongs with ball-head keeper and circular pads (worn).
Label TextPairs of tongs, long used for picking up hot items and materials, come in many sizes, depending on the intended use. On the robust end of the scale are large wrought iron examples made for moving burning wood within the fireplace, which stand in stark contrast to the frail but attractive silver tongs made for use with a tea service. This wrought set is slightly unusual in that it includes a broad circular spring joining the legs, which are further goverened by a ball-headed keeper. It could have been used for cooking meat or fish just as easily as it could have been used to fetch an ember to light one's pipe.