TOY

An incomplete post medieval lead alloy toy frying pan dating to the 17th century. The object is circular and would have had slightly everted sides which have now been flattened. The handle is broken and missing on this example. There is a fairly regular rectangular cut-out at the junction between the handle and the pan. The object is Forsyth and Egan (2005, 122) Type 5 design 1, consisting of two fish in high relief (facing in opposite directions) within a field of moulded pellets. The pellets may be suggestive of hot bubbling fat or perhaps herbs and berries. The fish are at right angles to the position of the handle. The pan has moulded beading around the rim. There is significant damage to the object so it is hardly recognisable as a frying pan, but the decoration is clearly visible.

There are several examples such as this on the PAS database: BH-96F552, LON-A89CF3, LON-9248E1 and NCL-912971. This frying pan is similar to no. 2.23 illustrated by Egan & Forsyth (2005:122) to which the authors have suggested a date of 17th century.

Dimensions: diameter: 34.52 mm; thickness: 1.23 mm; weight: 3.59g

Reference: Forsyth, H. and Egan, G. 2005. Toys, Trifles and Trinkets. Base Metal Miniatures from London 1200 to 1800. Unicorn Press, London.