These are a pair of fiddle pattern tongs with a simple shell pattern to the top of the arm. This style is known as "Fiddle & Shell" pattern and is one of the main types of patterned tongs made throughout the 19th century. These are dated between 14th June and 31st August 1815. This can be determined this exactly from the clipped duty mark. This duty mark was clipped to show an increase in duty that was made at this time. Click here to see other tongs by Thomas Freeth Click on any picture to enlarge |