19th Century Blacksmith Forged Hand Wrought Iron Hearthware Coal Ash Shovel with Twisted Handle

Here's a primitive farmhouse or traditional fireplace hearth tool in excellent, well-preserved condition! Dating back to the 19th century, this antique ash or coal shovel is hand wrought of forged iron and features a flat, rectangular scoop blade and a long spiral or rope-twist patterned shaft/handle, which is a classic hallmark of early blacksmithing. Although very decorative, it actually provided an ergonomic grip that prevented the tool from slipping during use. At the end of the handle is a loop or rat tail hanger for hanging on a nail. Heavy-duty shovels like this one were household necessities at the time, used to scoop out ashes from fireplaces, wood stoves and for feeding coal into iron heating stoves. This piece measures 23 1/4 inches long overall while the blade is 4 3/4 inches wide and 5 1/2 inches long. The patina is old, original, and undisturbed. It is rugged, solid, and not rusty. One of the nicest we have ever found; this shovel would look great hanging on a wall or displayed on a fireplace hearth! Don't miss it!