Delicate Bronze and Porcelain Rack Pulley

What a beautiful piece of Victorian hardware! Very delicate detail on the casing covers a strong spring that is still going, well….strong! The subtle beige crackling of the porcelain inset is especially charming.

That being said, I have to admit that I have no idea how these were used. I presume they were used with window shades based upon my antique hardware catalog.  Similar items are shown in the window hardware section and there are shade brackets on the same page. Since many of my customers are quite knowledgeable I would appreciate any information they might be able to provide by going to the Contact Us page and sending me an email. Thanks in advance!
 
5-1/2” long