English-Style Triple Creasing Swage

Date1750-1820

MediumIron and steel

DimensionsOL: 9 7/8" OH: 9"

Credit LineGift of Judith and William McMillen

Object number2015-154

DescriptionEnglish-style triple creasing swage, now missing its fence, but retaining the wingscrew once used to secure it.
Label TextThis swage is a hinged pair of perfectly mated dies used to strike a three-part fillet, or fluting, directly into the sheet metal being worked. A simple process, it is accomplished by drawing a sheet of metal through the jaws of the piece while simultaneously hammering on the top die. Its adjustable guard (now missing) controls the alignment of the tin so that a continuous, straight fillet is struck into the piece. In addition to being highly attractive, the triple bead would strengthen the tin making the final product far more sturdy and durable. While the form of this tool is distinctly English, it could have been made in America too.