At first glance, this large metal clamp with wooden handles might seem imposing. Its rounded jaws leave a strong impression when squeezed. This tool was actually used in agriculture. It was used, among other things, to attach rings or securely close bags. Robust and reliable, it was indispensable on farms and in workshops.
The curved, crescent-shaped blade
This crescent-shaped object with two handles might seem strange if you’ve never seen it in a kitchen. It’s actually a mezzaluna knife, a chopping knife. It’s used with a rocking motion to finely chop herbs, garlic, onions, or vegetables. It’s an old tool, but still appreciated by cooking enthusiasts today.
The wooden laundry roller
Before the invention of modern irons, a wooden roller was used to smooth fabrics. The laundry was wrapped around a cylinder, and then the tool was rolled to flatten the fabric. This technique required patience, but it produced a very smooth finish.
The glass tube with float
This long glass tube, resembling a laboratory instrument, is actually a hydrometer. It was used to measure the density of a liquid, particularly to check the sugar or alcohol content in certain homemade preparations. It was widely used in the production of artisanal beverages.
The crank box
This small metal box with a crank was once very common in kitchens. It’s a manual meat grinder. You placed the food inside, then turned the crank to chop it finely. It was the ancestor of many modern kitchen appliances.
