This is a vintage Marcel hair-curling iron, made in Germany. These types of irons were heated externally, often over a stove or open flame, and used to create curls or waves in hair.
The curling iron is made of metal and has a simple, functional design, with two arms that clamp together to hold the hair while it's being curled. The absence of electrical components indicates its age, as electric curling irons became popular in the early 20th century.
11 1/2" long
1/2" barrel