S/3787 Antique 18th Century Pair of Steel Ember Tongs

A fine quality pair of 18th century steel ember tongs, having turned sprung handles, raised stop pin and an engraved brass plate. The long tapered jaws end in spade decorated ends, which include an X symbolising a protection against evil, especially that intended by witchcraft. These tongs were used to retrieve red hot embers from the fire, to light a candle or pipe and prime examples like this one illustrated are now rarely found, especially in such good condition.

Sold 15 in. (38 cm..) Wide
English Circa 1750