Object number
58/119
Description
A stiletto used for making eyelet holes through which cords and laces could be threaded, and also for Broderie Anglaise.
This is a stiletto, a tool used for making eyelet holes through which cords and laces could be threaded, and also for Broderie Anglaise. It is made of bone, with a pointed end and a handle with a carved pattern which ends in the shape of a dog's head. Nothing is known of its origins.
Physical description
1 stiletto: bone
Archival history
MERL 'Handwritten accession' form (Institute of Agricultural History) – ‘Description: This tool is made of bone and has a pointed end. The handle has a carved pattern on it and a dogs head at the top. // Dimensions: Length: 12.5cm // Associated information: Stilettos such as these were often found in the Victorian woman’s workbasket. They were used for making eyelet holes through which cords or laces would be threaded and were often found accompanying the lucet. They were also used for eyelet work now known as Broderie Anglaise. // References: MERL Library 5820 ‘The History of Needlework Tools’, Sylvia Groves. Pl.9 pp.94–95.’
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