Indian Bird-Form Jeweler's Torch

Spiky at the tail, sleek everywhere else.

This iron jeweler’s torch in bird form was made in Karnataka, South India, in the early 20th century. Such objects are often associated with the work of a goldsmith. The bill angles down from a thick neck, while the handle at the right finishes in a sharp, pointed tip. The body is shiny and dark, worn to a smooth dark brown. The spiked handle makes it look slightly more ready for work than for show. It sits low.

About 6 inches tall. Pointed comments only.