Black Forest Brass Toasting Fork with Bear Handle

Black Forest Brass Toasting Fork with Bear Handle 
A decorative Black Forest brass toasting fork, dating to the late 19th or early 20th century. 
The cast handle depicts a bear standing on its hind legs beside a tree stump, characteristic of the region’s folk carving tradition. 
The shaft is elegantly twisted, leading to a three-pronged fork with a pierced heart motif. 
Well cast with a good aged patina. 
A charming and unusual piece of fireplace ware, likely made for the continental market or as a traveller’s souvenir. 
Approx. length: 49.5cm.