Lot 128: A Victorian Style Brass Helmet Coal Scuttle and Set of Three Fireplace Tools
A polished brass coal scuttle of traditional helmet form, featuring a hammered martelé finish to the lower body and a smooth flared rim. The scuttle is fitted with a fixed overhead brass handle and a secondary smaller tipping handle at the rear, both secured by cast decorative mounts. Accompanying the scuttle is a set of three fireplace tools comprising a pair of scissor-action tongs, a poker with a cylindrical brass handle, and a secondary tool featuring a twisted metal shaft and a decorative brass handle. The tool shafts are constructed from darkened iron or steel. The scuttle rests on a circular pedestal base. The interior of the scuttle shows evidence of heavy use with accumulated carbon residue. There are no maker marks or hallmarks visible on the exterior or interior surfaces of the items. Two adhesive auction labels are present on the upper rim of the scuttle, one white label reading 25 25 and one orange label reading 128.
Condition report:
The brass surfaces exhibit significant oxidation, tarnishing, and spotting throughout, particularly visible on the upper rim and the tool handles (photo 1). The interior of the scuttle shows extensive soot staining and surface corrosion (photo 1). There are surface scratches and minor indentations consistent with domestic use and age. The rivets and mounts for the handles appear secure and intact. The iron shafts of the tools show surface rust and loss of original finish (photo 1).
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