Collection of 18th & 19th Century Antique Eel Spears

Object Description

A collection of five 18th and 19th century antique eel spears acquired from an East Anglian collection.

Also known as gleeves, these spears date from circa 1750-1850, constructed in wrought iron in a classic Victorian style.

East Anglia was once a popular spot for eel hunting all those years ago. In medieval times eels were used as currency, then in later years they were exchanged for money or cooked as a meal for the table. In recent times, the county now works to protect the marine animal.

These fishing antiques are an element of history that would make an interesting and striking wall hanging display in a period style property.

The largest is stamped with an indistinct name while the others are unmarked.

Additional information

The overall dimensions are for the largest spear.

Object Condition

Good structural condition. Two with relatively modern weld repairs; one to the shaft and one to the knife. These would have been fitted to long wooden poles.

Object Details