Images(3)

Flesh Fork

Dateca.1750-1820

OriginAmerica or Great Britain

MediumIron/steel, brass and solder

DimensionsLength: 20 3/8" Width 2 1/4"

Credit LineGift of Michael Weber

Object number2016-101

DescriptionLarge size flesh fork of typical two-tined form and of heavy construction.Label TextAnother indispensable kitchen tool is the oversize double-tined fork, which has never fallen into obsolescence. What is called a "carving fork" today was known as a "flesh fork" to early Americans. Used to put large hunks of meat into a pot, or to pull it out, they were also used when turning and carving whatever "flesh" was being cooked. While many of these forks were made of plain wrought iron, this example is superior for its large size, fine form and engraved brass elements.Inscription(s)What appears to read "W B J Kellen" is engraved on the brass plate soldered to the topside of the lower end of the handle where the tines originate from.