Time was that ones hands were never supposed to touch the food. This was a Victorian thought that of course has been nearly forgotten. Here are examples of tongs to assist one is serving food with a little help.

Sandwich tongs

These are engraved 1887-1912 helping to date them.

Tongs in the PLAIN pattern, made prior to 1920.

(from my personal collection)

Ice Tongs in the PURITAN pattern.

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Rare or Seldom Seen Stieff