Crofts & Assinder Crumb Brush with Swan Handle

This brass, wood and bristle crumb brush has wires at the top of the wood portion to hold what are probably horsehair bristles. This piece is circa early 1900s, possibly late 1800s-1920s. The brush may have been part of a silent butler set that included a tray, which would be used to sweep crumbs onto from the table between courses.

The front of the decorative brass handle features a swan in bullrushes or reeds, and the reverse is marked C & A for Crofts and Assinder. This company operated in Birmingham, England and were known for their decorative household items. The style is a hallmark of the Aesthetic Movement when Asian and nature-inspired motifs figured prominently. While the Aesthetic Movement capitalized on art for art's sake, the momentum behind this movement sought to create pieces that were functional but also attractive enough to display or use when guests were present. It also moved away from industrialization and mass produced pieces. One can see that the bristles here on this brush were anchored on by wire and by hand.

The length is approximately 6.5" from the top loop to the bottom of the bristles.

*****Condition: The bristles are soft and in good condition. The wooden portion has some wear, including a fine line that can be seen most clearly in the third and ninth photos. When I run a fingernail across it, it can be felt, but it idoes not affect the structural integrity of the piece.

Thank you for looking.