16th C. German Iron Witch Catcher - Hexenfanger

Western Europe, Germany, ca. 16th to 17th century CE. An intriguing and macabre detention device known as a hexenfanger (literally "witch catcher") with a conical socketing shaft surmounted by a parabolic body with articulating swivel arms above slender tension strips. The purpose of a hexenfanger was to detain purported 'witches' in public as well as for transporting witches from their cells to their trials and, ultimately, to their deaths. The inward-facing prongs on the ends of each swivel arm were meant to pierce the windpipe of the witch should she attempt to struggle. Witch catchers were made of iron because, as a substance that originates in the earth, it was believed to hinder a witch's abilities to cast evil spells or harm another individual. Size: 7.4" W x 12.125" H (18.8 cm x 30.8 cm); 12.4" H (31.5 cm) on included custom stand.

Provenance: private J.H. collection, Beaverton, Oregon, USA, acquired in October 2015; ex-private Schlitz, Germany collection

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#151188
Condition Report: Minor nicks to socketing shaft, parabolic body, swivel arms, and tension strips, with light encrustations, otherwise intact and very good. Great iron patina throughout. Swivel arms and tension strips are functional and still articulate.