This brass object has been in the owner's family for years and he needs help in identifying this intriguing antique. Although it resembles a nutcracker, attempts to use is as one bent the metal. It is solid brass.

This very old object features a monkey-like face wearing horns and a devious smile. The face is reminiscent of a gargoyle. Matching indentations are on each piece of the handle. One is about the size of a small grape. The other resembles a peanut. It is hinged at the top and opens like a nut cracker. The indentations are not big enough to hold any kind of nut.

A Latin description, possibly "-vitis" and "-umina" are inscribed on the back. A Fleur-de-lis upon a cross is found at the base on the back of the object.

Made in England, a coat of arms is embellished with a figure riding an animal. The person is sitting and holds a large sword or possibly a staff and cross. Both the coat of arms and figure are located on the front base.

The object is numbered twice on the inside of each handle. Serial numbers shed light on the object. A9596648 and possible a 9 or 5696849 are stamped into the handles.

The name "Lincoln" is engraved on the front and the object is approximately 5 inches long and weighs between two and three pounds.

Please send your guesses or answers to Southeastern Antiquing and Collecting, P.O. Box 510, Acworth, GA 30101.

Anyone with a mystery antique wishing help in identification may send photographs and descriptions to Southeastern Antiquing and Collecting for possible publication in future issues.

(This edition of "What Is It?" first appeared in Vol.1,
Issue 1 of Southeastern Antiquing and Collecting magazine)