Massive forged iron pliers with jaws in the shape of a crocodile head, simply chiseled with eyes, scales, and nostrils; the upper jaw overlapping the lower. From the Middle Ages until the 18^th C pliers of this type were used to tear flesh from prisoners and were often heated to red hot. A woodcut illustrating this is found in the "Schweizer Chronik des Johann Stumpf" (Augsburg, 1586). Just the sight of these massive piers could easily intimidate a prisoner into a confession. Pitted with scattered rust marking, but very sound and unaltered original condition. Overall length 53 1/4", weight 15 ½ pounds. A similar, but smaller example sold at auction in Munich in April 2008 for Euro 2900, plus 23% premium and tax (approx. $5800 US at the time).