Can someone tell me what this is?  Not metal, not wood, some kind of pressed wood pulp board.  Pivots on the center rivet.  Stamped TRI K MFG. CO. N.Y.C.  Some kind of pliers?  Any help is appreciated. 

Its made from phenolic material.  It is used for pulling fuses.

Chilly

Yupp! to pull Cartridge fuses, insolated so you don't get shocked...

Thank you! That was fast!

TUFNOL is a brand name in the UK for phenol impregnated cloth -  used as an electical insulation material