Antique Victorian early 19th century three prong roasting fork with oak handle

Antique Victorian early 19th century may be earlier possibly Georgian? 18 th century?three prong roasting fork with oak handle. This rare survivor toasting fork came from a period when the only source of heating and cooking was an open fire. Known as treen ( from a tree) the metal fork end has been hand made and beaten.

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Some age related wear

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44 cm tall

2 cm round ( handle)

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Toasting forks have a long history, dating back to at least the mid-16th century in Britain, and were used to toast bread or other foods over an open fire. Early forks had simple designs, but over time, they became more sophisticated with features like three staggered prongs and, by the late 18th and 19th centuries, inventions such as retractable handles to make them more practical and adjustable. Materials ranged from simple iron and brass to more ornate silver forks for wealthier households.

Evolution of the toasting fork

16th Century: The earliest known examples in Britain are from this period, indicating they were used by the middle and upper classes.

17th Century: References appear in literature, such as in Shakespeare's plays, comparing toasting irons to swords. Surviving examples include wrought-iron forks and even a silver one gifted in 1669.

18th Century: Forks became more functional, with three staggered prongs to hold bread more securely. This was also the era when toasting forks with "peculiar brackets" for toasting cheese became popular.

19th Century: Ingenious designs emerged, including telescopic and collapsible forks, with inventors like Sir Edward Thomason creating sliding versions.

Modern Era: With the advent of electric and gas stoves, toasting forks became obsolete for many and were often relegated to a back drawer. However, with the resurgence of wood-burning stoves and open fires, there has been a revival in their use and a renewed interest in vintage and functional toasting forks.

Materials and craftsmanship

Iron and Brass: Common for everyday use, these were made in large numbers.

Silver: Expensive forks with silver collars and handles were made for wealthier households or as decorative gifts.

Wood: Handles were often made of wood to insulate the user from the heat, with metal collars where the prongs met the handle to protect the wood from burning.

Toasting Fork | Unknown | V&A Explore The Collections

9 Sept 2004 — 1669 (dated) Artist/Maker. Unknown. Place of origin. London (made) This long-handled fork was made in 1669 and is one of the earliest surviving examp...

Victoria and Albert Museum