Strange forks.

[paulh]

This is one of a set of six forks. They are by Elkington and have a registration mark for 1867, plus Elkington’s date letter for the same year. They are of table fork size, but have strange “webbed” tines. The edge of the head of the fork is also raised to form a slight bowled effect.

Anyone know what they were for?

Paul.





.

[dognose]

Hi Paul,

I've really no idea, and I'm sure that they were made with a specific use in mind, but just guessing, could they have been a forerunner to Viner's 'Splayds'



Regards Trev.

[paulh]

Thanks Trev,

I had a similar thought, but I cannot imagine Victorian etiquette allowing that!

The shape does suggest that it is for using as a scoop of some sort, as it is not really designed to be held in the conventional "English" way of holding a fork.

Paul
.

[kerangoumar]

these types of forks were always used to scoop things (pickled walnuts etc) out of syrup or sauce in our house, different sizes for different foods. tho you probably have to ask a victorian what the intended use was.
.

[Granmaa]

I think that is called a pastry fork. Perfect for eating tarts.

Miles
.

[kerangoumar]

miles - not the kind of pastry that was produced in my grandmother's kitchens!
.

[dognose]

Hi Paul,

At last!, an answer.

From Chistofle's 1898 catalogue:


Presumably if the vegetables were served in a sauce, then the use of such a fork would be perfect.

Trev.

[paulh]

Thanks Trev. Butter beans in a white wine sauce for tea it is then!

Paul.