Silver-gilt Stork Ribbon Threader, 1809 WE/WF/WC

This is a very rare pair of Georgian silver-gilt ribbon threaders in the form of a stork.

These tong-like threaders can stand upright on the four claws attached to one of the finger rings and the stork itself is finely modelled with crisp detail. The all-over gilding is original, is mostly intact and has a lovely lemon colour. The finger grips are stamped with London hallmarks for the important silversmithing partnership of Eley, Fearn & Chawner (WE/WF/WC).

These ribbon threaders have a good feel in the hand and are of sturdy construction. They remain in excellent condition with neither damage nor repair.

The recognised use for these implements is ribbon threading, however an alternative for tying up the umbilical cord after birth has been suggested.