Antique Early Metalware 17thc Cast Iron Down Hearth Grisset. English C1670-90

A rare chance to buy a 17thc "down hearth" grisset....it is made of cast iron and stands on three short legs...the front legs shorter than the back to to tip the tallow forward....these small vessels were used by placing the tallow (animal fat) into the grisset and gently pushing up to the embers of the fire to melt the tallow...the rushes, which have been previously reduced in length.... dried and stripped of all the skin, apart from a small strip of skin for support are then drawn through the melted fat in the grisset to coat them....they are then dried and ready to use as replacements for candles. The grisset is in very good condition for its great age and use...

English. C1670-90.