Material

iron

Dimensions

Overall: 10 1/4 x 13 1/2 x 2in. (26 x 34.3 x 5.1cm)

Creation Date

circa 1750 – 1800

Description

Wrought iron device, shaped vaguely like an animal, with a large, swiveling suspension ring at the top, connected to the crosspiece of the body by a twisted bar. The flat-sectioned body has two hooks to hold the handle of the kettle (in the position of the animal's legs), with a scrolled "tail" at one end. At the other end is a long "neck" fitted with a spring to secure the front hook. Another scroll sits atop the animal's head, from which a long curvilinear handle emanates. The handle changes from flat to round in crossection and terminates in an acorn finial. Both riveted joints are articulated.

Whether you think this device looks like a deer, elephant, giraffe or anteater, one can't deny that it is one of the more fanciful pieces of functional ironware. Called a "kettle tilter," it did just that, and made hearthside cooking a bit more convenient and safe during the 18th century. Suspended by a hook through the large loop at the top, the handle of a kettle rested on the two broad hooks positioned as the "legs" of the imaginary animal the tilter takes the form of. A downward tug of the long curving handle would tilt the kettle enough to allow the perfect amount of hot water to pour from the kettle's spout, minimizing the risk of a painful scalding.

Provenance

The Colonial Williamsburg Foundation. Museum Purchase.

Kitchen Artifact ID

Acc. No. 1956-194