Grain Scythe (Cradle)

Name/Title

Grain Scythe (Cradle)

Description

Grain scythe (cradle). Such farm implements were referred to as "a fine finger bow." It consists of a steel scythe blade and a wooden cradle. Its handle (snath) is made of willow (shaped in hot oil) and fingers made of hickory. The sned (base piece) is made of ash. This implement was used to harvest wheat or other grains and its single cutting pass would leave a stack of grain which would then be stood upright to dry and cure.

Made/Created

Artist

American, unknown

Date made

1790 - 1810

Time Period

late 18th early 19th centuries

Place

Region

New England

Country

United States

Continent

North America

Notes

Made about 1800

Inscription/Signature/Marks

Type

None

Dimensions

Dimension Description

Overall

Height

153 cm

Length

93 cm

Dimension Notes

Height measures blade whereas the length measures the snath (handle).

Material

willow, hickory and ash, Metal (steel), Metal (iron)