Hem clamp, also known as a ‘seamstress’s third hand’ Made of steel and fabric. A zoomorphic clamp, taking the form of a stylised bird (or perhaps a snake?), shaped like a clamp (which was used to hold a piece of fabric in place). It is complemented by a small screw-operated vice, with a heart-shaped head, and a pin cushion, covered in green velvet and edged with lace. 19th century Total height (screw retracted) 15.3 cm