Images(2)

Tin Tools: 2014-48; 2014-50; 2014-51; 2014-52; 2014-54; 2014-53

Mandrel Stake

Date1780-1880

OriginAmerica

MediumMaple and pine

DimensionsOL: 29" OH: 11" Maximum diameter: 4 3/4"

Credit LineGift of Stephen Eisenhart

Object number2014-48

DescriptionTinsmith's mandrel stake of biconical form with one short and one long horn. Both sides of the top end in blunted points. Its squared post is inlet and pegged into the body of the stake and has chamfered corners. A turned reinforce is at the junction of the post and body.
Label TextWooden tin-working tools like this mandrel stake were used to "true up" hollow forms like coffeepot bodies and speaking trumpets. Additionally, they could be used as a supporting surface on which to solder the seam on these tin forms. Since these wore out much more quickly than steel and iron stakes, early examples rarely survive today.
ProvenanceFrom the Eisenhart collection of tinsmithing tools.