Goffering Italian Iron or Tally iron
Goffering Italian Iron or Tally iron
Name/Title
Goffering Italian Iron or Tally ironEntry/Object ID
2025.1.566Description
Cast iron large goffering iron. The poker would have been heated, possiblly over a fire and re-inserted into the metal tube.Context
Introduced to the UK from Italy in the early 17th century, the Tally iron continued to be in use until the end of the Victorian era, as ruffles in one form or another, were fashionable in clothing for both men and women. During the Elizabethan period when stiff starched ruffs were popular, a poking stick (similar to the poker part of the goffering iron) would be used to create the 'Goff' or ruffed look. To avoid burning and discolouring the fabric the goffering iron was developed.Category
Domestic