Indian Bird-Form Jeweler's Torch

The most compact of the flock, with a bill like a question mark.

Karnataka, South India, is the source of this early 20th century iron bird-form jeweler’s torch. Objects of this type are commonly linked with metalworkers. The curved bill points down from a rounded head, and a slender handle stays short. A spot of rust-orange shows on the shoulder of the dark, scratched body, with a seam around its middle. Its short, squat outline sits low and steady, like a bird settling on eggs.

About 6 inches tall. Small, but not shy.