These are a fascinating pair of tongs. This pair of tongs is hallmarked on the outside of the arms. The maker’s mark is clearly the same as seen on other pairs of tongs, with the same flaw in the punch. They are dated c1790.

Tongs marked on the outside are rare - but are seen. I have seen them made by Thomas Tookey, Charles Hougham, and have also seen cast pairs. There is some discussion regarding the reasons for marking tongs on the outside, including that it may have been a "left-over" from the early days of marking sugar nips on the outside of the finger rings. I can't say I am convinced of this given the date of these tongs (1786 - 1790), however, the discussion goes on...

Click here to see tongs by Thomas Tookey hallmarked on the outside of the arms

Click here to see tongs by Samuel Wintle hallmarked on the outside of the arms