Eye Tongs

Date1750-1850

MediumIron

DimensionsOverall: 23 5/8"

Credit LineGift of Mr. Albert C. Mazukna

Object number1990-175

DescriptionBlacksmith's "eye" tongs of conventional form with appropriately shaped jaws.
Label TextStoutly built with shorter handles, this specialized pair of tongs was used for picking up and holding any forging with an “eye” opening, like an axe head or hinge. The projections on the inside of the jaws went into this opening and afforded a firm grip on the piece while it was hammered on the anvil.