Name/TitleReaping Hook
About this objectA reaping hook with a curved projection at the handle end of the blade, and a slight secondary curve where the blade narrows. The handle has a flared end and is wedged by three hooks, with a tang knocked down over the ring. This tool was purchased by the donor from a scrap merchant, who obtained the item from a Mr Hadleigh, a farmer from West Bergholt. Generally, the tool would have been used for cutting cereal and bean crops. The crop is chopped and then collected by means of the hook. It was often collected against the leg of the labourer and formed into a sheaf. It is also an efficient means of cutting when the crop is badly laid (See Freams, Elements of Agriculture, p.96, 9th edition). The use of this particular hook is unknown. The blade of the hook is marked 'DUNSFORD, MAF, MORRIS'.
Medium and MaterialsWood and Iron
Inscription and MarksOn the blade:
'DUNSFORD
MAF
[MORRIS]'
MeasurementsLength of Handle: 6 inches
Max. Width of Blade: 1 1/2 inches
Height of ferrule: 1 inch
Distance across curve: 1 foot 1/2 inch
Min. width of blade: 5/8 inches
Object numberSTMEA:A.7062
Copyright LicenceAttribution - Non-commercial (cc)