Material

iron

Dimensions

Overall: 40 1/4 x 7 1/4 x 3/4in. (102.2 x 18.4 x 1.9cm)

Creation Date

circa 1810 – 1840

Description

Wrought iron peel with a long handle of rectangular section, broadening at either end, and topped with a tightly curled ram's-horn terminal. Handle steps down in thickness and is forged integrally with the quadrangular blade, which is made with rounded top shoulders.

While the simple peel, also known as a slice, might look like a gardening tool to modern eyes, it was the key implement to early American oven baking. With a long handle and sturdy blade, it was as useful for moving glowing hot coals within the oven as it was for putting in and removing foodstuffs. Peels like this one are the direct ancestors of those used today in most pizza restaurants.

Provenance

The Colonial Williamsburg Foundation. Museum Purchase.

Kitchen Artifact ID

Acc. No. 1971-111