For many early American history
enthusiasts, living with a tangible connection to the past can be a way of
life. This year’s CLF fundraising auction will feature a delightful set of
cooking utensils that will be equally at home around a campfire or in a 21st century kitchen.
Blacksmith and CLA member Greg Bray
has crafted a full set of hand-forged cooking implements based on original 18th century examples. The set includes a ladle, a serving or cooking fork, a key
hole spatula, and a skimmer. All the tools were forged from mild steel and the
skimmer has a brass bowl attached with rivets. The hanging bar for the set is
adorned with ram’s horn finials. True to the example of most 18th century blacksmiths, Bray left these pieces unsigned.
The artist’s experience at the
forge is evident in this fine set, which is attractive as well as utilitarian.
Bray has been blacksmithing for nearly three decades, and now serves as the
executive director of Prickett’s Fort, a West Virginia living history museum
that recreates life on the early frontier.
“The CLA,” says Bray, “is vital in
perpetuating the history and the importance of the early craftsmen in the
building of our nation. The CLA allows todays modern-era craftsmen and women to
be able to have a venue to show their talents and to carry on the traditions of
the early craftsmen.”
For more information on the work of Greg Bray, contact the
artist directly at: director@prickettsfort.org
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