Toaster c. 1938

This Toaster was made by Roy Weber, likely in the late 19th or early 20th century, using forged iron. Notice the twisted wire arches above, and the way the iron is bent to form both the support for the bread and the legs. The choice of iron is significant. It speaks to a time when metalworking was more commonplace, and functional objects were often handmade. This wasn't just about utility; the maker invested skill and time, evident in the careful shaping of each element. The texture of the iron, its weight, and the evidence of the forging process all contribute to the object’s character. Consider the labor involved in creating this toaster. Each curve and joint required deliberate action, a stark contrast to today’s mass-produced appliances. By valuing the material and the making, we see beyond the toaster’s function, appreciating it as a testament to human ingenuity and effort.