No. 1 Landers, Frary & Clark 'Universal' Food Chopper

This is a vintage manual food chopper, identified by the embossed lettering on the body as a 'Universal No. 1' manufactured by Landers, Frary & Clark of New Britain, Conn., USA. Likely dating from the early 20th century (circa 1900-1920s), the tool is constructed of heavy cast iron with a tinned finish, featuring a turned wooden handle on the crank arm. The design includes a large hopper for feeding food, a hand-cranked internal auger, and a built-in screw-clamp base for securing the unit to a table or countertop. The cast-iron body displays significant age-related patina, including thinning of the original tin coating leading to oxidation (rust) and darkening of the metal surface. The wooden handle shows wear consistent with heavy use but remains intact. The lettering is clearly legible, stating 'UNIVERSAL FOOD CHOPPER' and including the manufacturing location. The craftsmanship is typical of the industrial period, focusing on durability and utility. Missing from this view is the cutting disk or plate that would typically be secured to the front outlet. The condition is fair to good for a functional antique, though it requires significant cleaning and restoration if intended for culinary use.