This small handheld tool was once commonly kept near dressing tables and shoe closets.
Its narrow metal hook was pushed through a tight buttonhole, looped around the button, and pulled back through. It made fastening stiff boots, shoes, gloves, and fitted clothing much easier, especially when the buttons were tiny or difficult to grip.
These tools were widely used before zippers and modern fasteners became common.
Answer: It is an antique buttonhook.


