Ice Tongs...What is this Object?

[silvercrown]

This is a silver plated object with three, tong-like fingers on one end. It has a beautiful, enameled flower on the other end. When you push down on the flower, like a syringe, the tongs open. Is this an ice tong? I'm baffled. Oh, and there are no marks whatsover on the piece. Thanks!




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[dognose]

Hi silvercrown,
I think it could be for anything difficult to pick up such as ice cubes or pickled onions,
Regards Trev.
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[dragonflywink]

I've always known these as Swedish sugar tongs, have run across a couple in fitted cases with demitasse spoons, so assume they were meant for sugar cubes. Have seen two sizes, about 4½-5" and some a couple of inches longer, perhaps they were meant for pickles, olives, whatever. Always liked that little plunger operated claw, yours is a bit prettier than most.

~Cheryl
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[2209patrick]

Here's a picture of another one. It's 4.25 inches (10.80 cm) long.
This one was made in Sweden.
My book refers to it as "Olive tongs".



Pat.
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[dragonflywink]

Not sure if I've ever seen any of these made outside of Sweden, seems a bit odd. Anyone run across any from other countries?

~Cheryl
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[silvercrown]

Thanks to all of you. Olive tongs makes sense. Whatever, it's a very pretty piece with the lovely enamel work. I truly appreciate all your help. Thanks to everyone who shared their knowledge.

Silvercrown
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[Bahner]

Hello, in Germany this is used for sugar cubes. Best wishes, Bahner
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[dognose]

Just seen one of these in their original box, made by C.G. Hallbergs, Guldsmedsaktiebolag, Stockholm and described by Hallbergs as 'SOCKERTÃ…NGEN/ZUCKERZANGE'

Cheryl and Bahner were spot on.

Trev.
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[dragonflywink]

Another thread on these plunger-type tongs:

http://www.925-1000.com/forum/viewtopic.php?t=11072" onclick="window.open(this.href);return false;

~Cheryl
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