Can you identify this item?

[AngC]

I don't know, but I'm pretty sure I saw a face. Quick, sell it on ebay--must be worth at least two grand, maybe more!

http://www.goldenpalaceevents.com/ebay_archives/jesuswall01.html

 

[FurstPlaceMiniatures]

They aren't for restraining cattle. The grabber edges are sharp and they are missing the bulbs on the grabber ends necessary for staying in the nose. Also that sharp edge on the one end would be deadly to an operators wrist and there's no way to attach them to a chain or rope. Would

Make the animal more peeved and put her in pain more than restrain! Also when closed they don't come close enough together. My pair has maybe a 1/2" 'gap' when closed.

My bet is hoof tester or some obscure specialty tool!

 

[shorthorsemom]

My newest guess is that it is a forging tool ... It is what a farrier or metals smith would use to hold the hot metal piece while hammering something into shape using an anvil.