A co-worker found this in his basement. It is a 1/2" diameter solid brass rod, about 25 or 26 inches long, with a decorative "knob" piece threaded on one end, and a single bushing. I suspect the other end had a bushing and knob at some time.
What is it? Too heavy to be a curtain rod.
(https://i.postimg.cc/3wX0bsBG/Rod-1.jpg) (https://postimg.cc/FfKKYnwF)
(https://i.postimg.cc/mDT1xmX5/thumbnail-20240429-105902.jpg) (https://postimg.cc/v1SZftdr)
It reminds me of a part originally installed in my home to control the fireplace damper, but being made of brass I seriously doubt it.
My home was made in 1930. If the home it was found in is old, has a fireplace, and has an odd hole in the face of the brick surrounding the fireplace at a height where the damper would be located then stick the thing in and if it fits the damper plate.
A bit unlikely though I will readily admit.
Plunger for some type of tube sprayer?
It reminds me of the rods used to open the transom windows above the bedroom doors in large homes, circa 1900. The rods were always brass, and something this heavy was a possibility in an elegant home.