Double Swirl Leg Crook

A gorgeous 19th century crook from the Rural Historia Collection. Full of patina and full of history. As with all crooks this was made by the local blacksmith in his village forge.  I always look out for the hand forged rivet used to connect the crook to the shaft - always a great sign of an original handle.

Often it is the case that the more swirls a crook has, the more senior the shepherd was - a form of high status.

One of the most fascinating things about 19th century crooks is that they weren't completely standardised. The design of these metal crooks varies from locality to another

Differences occurred particularly in the guide, terminal curl and width of the opening.

This is important because it means that the distinctive heads we've been looking at weren't necessarily random blacksmith decoration. Certain areas developed recognisable traditions.

Another wonderful of rural history that deserves to be loved! 

Length - 147 cm