This unusual pair of scissors is shaped like a chicken. I’ve never seen these before! What is it?

At first glance, this antique object looks like a decorative pair of scissors shaped like a chicken. In reality, it is a vintage egg topper, also known as boiled egg cutter scissors or egg scissors.

This unusual kitchen tool was made to help people neatly open the top of a soft-boiled egg while the egg was still in its shell. Instead of cracking the shell with a spoon and making a mess, the user would place the round cutting cup over the top of the egg and use the scissor-style handles to remove the shell cap cleanly.

Name: Vintage Chicken Egg Scissors / Boiled Egg Cutter Scissors / Egg Topper
Likely Period: Many decorative examples became popular in the late 19th century and early 20th century, though similar egg toppers are still made today.
Main Use: To cut or remove the top of a soft-boiled egg shell before eating.
Material: Often silver-plated, gold-plated, or brass-toned metal, depending on the maker and period.

The chicken design was not just for decoration. Since eggs and hens naturally go together, makers often shaped these tools like chickens, roosters, or other farm-themed figures. The detailed feathers, legs, and rings made the object both practical and charming enough to display at the breakfast table.

One important correction: these tools were mainly used for soft-boiled eggs, not poached eggs. A poached egg is cooked outside the shell, so there would be no shell to cut.

Today, vintage egg toppers are collected by people who enjoy antique kitchen tools, Victorian-style dining pieces, and unusual household gadgets. Modern versions still exist, but many of them are much simpler. Antique chicken-shaped egg scissors stand out because they combine function, humor, and craftsmanship in one small object.