What Is This?

[silvercrown]

This was acquired in a box lot at an auction. The design, in case it is not clear, is two holly leaves and a holly berry. The piece is 2 3/4" long. It is marked 830S. Does anyone know what this object is? Thanks, as always!



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[dragonflywink]

Skirt lifter?
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[2209patrick]

Please reply on the same thread.
admin edit

Skirt lifter....could be! I would never have thought of that. Thanks so much. Silvercrown

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[silvercrown]

A friend has told me that she has seen these described as "hankie holders". The hankie is held by the little pincers at the bottom and the loop end is hung from a chatelaine. Just thought I'd pass this info along.

Silvercrown
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[2209patrick]

Skirt lifters (American), skirt clips (British) or porte-jupes (French).

Skirts were long in the 19th century.
At this time steets were not paved and often soiled by horses and other animals.
Skirt lifters were needed to lift skirts out of the muddy steets.

Skirt lifters with a loop at one end were also used when the ladies danced.

Pat.
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[admin]

Don't recall Silvercrown's image, but here is a French gilt brass saute-ruisseau & pince à jupe.