Sewing bird, also known as a ‘seamstress’s third hand’ Made from cast and stamped brass. An animal-shaped clamp, modelled on a bird, forming a clamp (which was used to hold a piece of fabric in place). It is complemented by a small screw-operated vice. England, Victorian period Total height (screw retracted) 12.5 cm The two small cushions for holding needles are missing, and there are some minor imperfections