Carol J.

Looks like a sad iron holder. I remember in our family's homes where there was a cook stove that the women had the iron part on the heat to warm up, then used a holder to pick one up and use it while another heated. The iron part is missing in this picture. The spring form inside the holder caught and released the iron part and the ridge was for ironing close to a part of the garment.
That would be my idea.
Carol J.

lauriejo

Ramona, sad iron is aptly named! I would be VERY sad to have to iron like that.

Carol J.

Just happened to remember, I have something similar to the one shown, got it from the MIL many years ago. The apparatus for lifting the hot iron from the cook stove is similar. Ironing was not easy in those days and some pounded linens with a board and no heat too. Called a mangle board by the Norwegians.
Carol J.

quilter64779

my husband says it look like a blocking block for sewing or possible for creating pleats in skirt.

harvsstuff

I have one and never knew what it was. Thanks for letting us know.

jbj137

I give UP.
Tell me please, please, please
J J.

fairydawn

Is it a shuttle for weaving?

Roberta

ROTF, too funny.

longerarmer

sure would like to know

Kitsie

What does the bottom look like? Why is there a groove on the side in the 2nd pic and the little "squares" on the 1st?

Ooops, missed a page. All has been answered. That would have been MY guess. Uh-huh, sure. Thanks, that was great!