Revolutionary War Brass Pipe Tongs, as in museum

This is another interesting piece being offered, it is brass pipe tongs, ca. 1770 – 1790. The overall length is 9 ½” and has a two-piece construction – one tong and finial is a solid piece while the other side swivels.

In the 18th century, pipe tongs were primarily used for lighting a pipe by picking up embers from a fire or brazier. They also served as a multi-purpose tool, helping smokers to pack tobacco into the bowl and scrape out burnt remains. Some tongs even incorporated a tamper and scraper for cleaning the pipe. These tongs were essential tools for colonial era smokers, particularly before the widespread availability of matches.

They remain in very nice condition with an untouched dark patina. As expected, there are no markings, and it easily swivels. There is a similar example of these pipe tongs in The Museum of Fine Arts in Houston, Texas (see pictures). They would be a nice addition to a Revolutionary War or Colonial collection.