This sturdy hand tool was commonly used before modern electric mixers became standard in the kitchen.
The cook gripped the wooden handle and pressed the wide metal grid repeatedly into a pot or bowl. The openings broke soft, cooked food into a smoother texture while allowing it to pass through the plate. Besides potatoes, it could also be used for turnips, carrots, squash, and other cooked vegetables.
Its simple metal construction made it durable enough to last for decades.
Answer: It is an old-fashioned potato masher.
