Material

tin
iron

Dimensions

Height: 12 1/4" Width: 12 1/8" Depth: 3 1/4"

Creation Date

circa 1790 – 1840

Description

Tinned sheet iron drainer, heart shaped, with a flat perforated bottom, turned up and soldered to a high side wall with a wired top edge.

Early Americans loved the various soft cheeses that could be easily prepared at home. Coagulated lumps of cheese known as curds were allowed to drain for a period of time in molds like device, which simultaneously formed the cheese into a pleasing heart shape, ready to be enjoyed.

Provenance

The Colonial Williamsburg Foundation. Gift of Earl W. and Eleanor G. Sargent.

Kitchen Artifact ID

Acc. No. 1977-110