Stork Silver Ribbon Threaders, 1883

These are a rare pair of Victorian silver ribbon threaders in the form of a stork and made by George Unite.

These tong-like threaders can stand upright on the four claws attached to one of the finger rings and have a series of parallel teeth inside the bill (akin to a file) for grasping. The full set of hallmarks are located on one of the finger rings with part marks to the other. 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.