Horned Bottle Opener
$ 18
The corkscrew, first appearing in Europe in the 1600s, evolved alongside the rise of bottled wine sealed with corks. Early designs, inspired by tools used to remove bullets from muskets, featured a simple helix-shaped “worm” attached to a handle. By the 18th and 19th centuries, corkscrews became more specialized and decorative, often crafted from wood, ivory, or metal, with the familiar T-shaped design emerging during this period. Mechanical innovations such as levers, ratchets, and gears made opening bottles easier, reflecting the growing popularity of wine. In the 20th century, designs expanded to include winged corkscrews, the double-lever “waiter’s friend,” and even electric models, while stainless steel became a common material. Beyond their practical function, corkscrews have long been collectible objects, valued for craftsmanship, regional style, and decorative appeal.