Douter

ca. 1720-1725

English, active ca. 1719

This small article has two arms designed as U-style tongs, with a flat disc at the end of each arm. Douters were used in the eighteenth century to extinguish the flame of a candle or spirit lamp. The name is said to have been derived from the expression "Dout the candle."

Sterling silver

4 7/8 x 1 1/4 x 3/4 in. (12.38 x 3.18 x 1.91 cm)

Gift of Ruth J. Nutt

95.73

Not currently on view

Seattle Art Museum respectfully acknowledges that we are on Indigenous land, the traditional territories of the Coast Salish people. We honor our ongoing connection to these communities past, present, and future.

Learn more about Equity at SAM