Long handled cast tool with stamped initials SL

Hi

Sorry for the quality of the photos but does anyone know what this tool is for? Curved handle and length would suggest it has a specific use, perhaps dipping or removing something hot. A small hole in the lower bowl and impressed with the initials SL

toasting chestnuts?

Not Chestnuts. Those are much broader and have a pattern of holes in the paddle-end.
Difficult to say. How big is it? Maybe for skimming scum off the top of a pot of stew?

Small about 8 inches long with the holder about 1.25 inches across

I suspect it's for skimming, then.

skimming milk?

Possibly. It's got a draining hole so I guess it could be used to skim off skin or scum.

Carolyn Preston wrote:Or skimming fat off soup or stew.

Carolyn

Maybe, but it would flow out of the hole.

Could be used for slag removal from lead but no residue metals. Too small for most kitchen uses though. With the long handle it is certainly to keep a distance from something very hot yet the bowl is tiny in proportion, maybe for quail egg removal from boiling lol

RVsaid wrote:Could be used for slag removal from lead but no residue metals. Too small for most kitchen uses though. With the long handle it is certainly to keep a distance from something very hot yet the bowl is tiny in proportion, maybe for quail egg removal from boiling lol

Maybe it is for removing eggs.

If it was cone shaped it would be a candle snuffer, but perhaps it for snuffing larger candles?
Is there any trace of wax on it?

no none, I also inverted it on a candle and it would let it burn down lowering the metal with it however, did not seem right

In the title you say it's been cast, but from the photos it looks like it's been worked by a blacksmith.

The tool was made by a variety of hand techniques, but likely no casting, unless you can see definite cast lines.

It doesn't look like iron, too shiny. Perhaps some type of alloy, or a finished pewter? Is it magnetic?

from the way the handle has been shaped I would guess it's for reaching into a barrel and scooping out the contents which are small and stored in liquid..
olives perhaps?

Looks like hand forged steel to me, with lot of bluing to take the shine off.

Hi a little organic for blacksmith work I would of thought, as far as I know it is not magnetic as it is my sisters item