"David Starer" wrote in message t...
Chris,

A hawk is also the name for the flat spatula-like tool used by plasterers to
spread and smooth plaster onto a wall. So the hardware reference isn't as
obscure as it might seem.



I think you'll find the plasterer's hawk is the small wooden or steel
hand held platform that holds the muck before it is applied. For a
right handed plasterer the hawk is held in the left hand and the
trowel, or float if finishing, is held in the right.

Andy (GY)