Antique Primitive Hetchel Hatchel Flax Comb

This early flax hetchel was recently discovered in a storage shed on Virginia's Eastern Shore. Flax Hetchels were used to split, straighten, and clean the flax fibers as a final step in preparing the fibers to be spun into a type of thread that was then woven into linen fabric.

In this example, forged nails were driven through a tin backing into the wooden base. Tin pieces were also used around the open holes on either end as extra support. One is missing and the other is partially intact. This piece is 13" long, 3 1/4" wide, and 14" deep (including the spikes).

There is some age appropriate wear to the wooden back and sides but all in all it is strong and sturdy. This is a true survivor from the 18th or 19th century and would be a wonderful addition to any collection of early primitives.