Hand-forged Iron Grain Sampler (Small)

This hand-forged iron grain sampler or Parkhi is from a local bazaar in the older neighbourhoods of Varanasi city. It is and was predominantly used to sample grains of rice, wheat or pulses by piercing the sack that contains them and withdrawing a small sample of grain to examine its quality. Though slowly giving way to ones made from steel pipes, this grain sampler has a handmade beauty that transcends time.

A looped handle allows for a good grip while the sharper end is formed from the same piece of iron by beating and shaping. It can be used as an item of decoration or even as a paperweight.

TWF Picks is a selection of ordinary objects sourced from the bazaars and markets of India. Each object speaks of the culture and tradition of the place it is found in. Some of the objects are at the end of their regular existence and making tradition. Being replaced either by badly made versions or in some cases being totally replaced by cheap plastic alternatives. TWF Picks is a way of making them available to an audience beyond their place of origin. Perhaps in the hope that this may prolong the memory of their existence and highlight the beauty of their ordinary-ness.  

Material: Hand-forged Iron. Unpainted, uncoated.

Size: 200mm x 35mm (Can vary +/- 5mm)

Note: Dimensions will vary from piece to piece. Iron will tend to rust. Pieces will exhibit marks of their handcrafted process.

Care: Rust may be prevented by painting or oiling the piece. 

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