Description
Overview
A handmade wooden hay fork in the style collectors call a “finger fork”: formed from a single length of hardwood, likely ash or hickory, whose working end was split down the grain into three tines and bent apart, likely by steaming. Forks of this construction were the traditional tool for pitching loose hay and straw in the American Northeast and across Europe. This example is likely American, early-to-mid 20th century, and makes a clean, balanced display primitive. Local pickup only (Henrietta, NY).
Design & Craftsmanship
- Function & Form: Three-tine hay fork, approx. 48″ (4 ft) long; straight round shaft with outward-fanning tines.
- Artistry & Ornamentation: Tines riven from the shaft itself, held evenly apart by small pinned wooden spacers set into the splits; warm orange-brown wood tone with tapered, rounded tine points.
- Structural Base: Plain rounded handle end; no metal hardware or factory stamp, consistent with handcrafted green-wood work.
Condition Report
- Surface Condition: Clean, warm patina with light handling wear; minimal weathering or checking.
- Structural Integrity: All three tines intact and unbroken; spacers in place. This item is sold “as-is” with all associated patina and wear inherent to its age and history as part of the Tour World Crafts Barn & Studio Collection.
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