Long Forged Iron Hook & Eye, Not a Gaff: Purpose?

This is 13" long, ~1 5/16" wide across the hook tip, the eye is ~1" wide with a ~9/16" hole; weight is ~9 3/4 oz. The shaft is ~3/8" diameter; there are 2 apparent scarf-welds in the shaft, suggesting the ends were separately forged, then joined by a ~6" center bar.
I have always been drawn to such handmade iron implements, often more strongly when their purpose was unknown, or only hinted at...as in this piece. Your comments, guesses, an' conjectures are all appreciated...thanks for lookin'!

 

Pot hook?

 

Good thought, Marote...Imagine the size of the fireplace an' its hearth! Thank you!