Interesting indeed. Size does matter. The twisted part is exactly the same on the nutcracker handles I inherited from my parent's (also very old.) But of course, that is just indicative of the metal work.

4" high... the tips appear to be made to be inserted into something... the twisted part is for a grip, imo.... does this help (if it's true?)

something silly like a cooked egg holder?

is it complete?
Doesn't it fit into a handle of some sort?
Maybe like a milk curdler, potato mixer or separator or such?
Is it used in the kitchen?