Not a tool? but interesting

[amecks]

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.

[Uncle Buck]

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.

[Yadda]

Plunger for some type of tube sprayer?

[john k]

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.