Ice Tongs...What is this Object?

[silvercrown]

This is a silver plated object with three, tong-like fingers on one end. It has a beautiful, enameled flower on the other end. When you push down on the flower, like a syringe, the tongs open. Is this an ice tong? I'm baffled. Oh, and there are no marks whatsover on the piece. Thanks!




.

[dognose]

Hi silvercrown,
I think it could be for anything difficult to pick up such as ice cubes or pickled onions,
Regards Trev.
.

[dragonflywink]

I've always known these as Swedish sugar tongs, have run across a couple in fitted cases with demitasse spoons, so assume they were meant for sugar cubes. Have seen two sizes, about 4½-5" and some a couple of inches longer, perhaps they were meant for pickles, olives, whatever. Always liked that little plunger operated claw, yours is a bit prettier than most.

~Cheryl
.

[2209patrick]

Here's a picture of another one. It's 4.25 inches (10.80 cm) long.
This one was made in Sweden.
My book refers to it as "Olive tongs".



Pat.
.

[dragonflywink]

Not sure if I've ever seen any of these made outside of Sweden, seems a bit odd. Anyone run across any from other countries?

~Cheryl
.

[silvercrown]

Thanks to all of you. Olive tongs makes sense. Whatever, it's a very pretty piece with the lovely enamel work. I truly appreciate all your help. Thanks to everyone who shared their knowledge.

Silvercrown
.

[Bahner]

Hello, in Germany this is used for sugar cubes. Best wishes, Bahner
.

[dognose]

Just seen one of these in their original box, made by C.G. Hallbergs, Guldsmedsaktiebolag, Stockholm and described by Hallbergs as 'SOCKERTÃ…NGEN/ZUCKERZANGE'

Cheryl and Bahner were spot on.

Trev.
.

[dragonflywink]

Another thread on these plunger-type tongs:

viewtopic.php?t=11072

~Cheryl
.