An Old Hot Coal Iron with Unusual Latch

Discussion in 'Metalware' started by Lithographer, Oct 19, 2022.

  1. Lithographer

    Lithographer Well-Known Member

    This is not the kind of thing I typically buy, but the little figure on the latch intrigued me. The iron is small, only 4" long. Not sure how old it is, maybe early 20th? I was hoping that someone with some more experience than me could give me an idea on age, manufacturer and what that little figure is. There are no markings or numbers on it. The wire holding the handle is not contemporary to the piece, not sure on the wood handle. I am not 100% sure how it works, do you put hot coals in it? Kinda seems like some little pieces could come out of the holes and burn your clothes.
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    Lithographer, Oct 19, 2022
    #1
    Aquitaine, komokwa and pearlsnblume like this.
  2. Roaring20s

    Roaring20s Well-Known Member

    It looks like Mr. Punch of Punch and Judy
     
    Roaring20s, Oct 19, 2022
    #2
    johnnycb09 and pearlsnblume like this.
  3. daveydempsey

    daveydempsey Moderator Moderator

    This is uncanny, but I got one yesterday in a clearance I'm currently doing.

    Never seen a flat /sad iron like it before.

    No markings however mine is 7 inches in length and 8 inches high to the top of the handle, it weighs 6 lb (2.70 kilos)

    The latch appears to be a lions head.


    Pics are terrible, unnatural light at 00.45.
    upload_2022-10-21_0-41-22.jpeg

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    daveydempsey, Oct 20, 2022
    #3
    komokwa and Roaring20s like this.
  4. Lithographer

    Lithographer Well-Known Member

    When I was researching mine, I am pretty sure I ran across one like yours. I also ran across a bunch of photos of people trying to use them, a few went up in flames!
     
    Lithographer, Oct 20, 2022
    #4
    daveydempsey likes this.
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