Tough one, looks like something bifold.

Yes, thanks for the reply. It is stamped Chicago...

this is small, like for cabinet hardware or maybe a desk?  and i assume the pieces that screw to the door or leaf are missing?
 

Maybe for shutters

all the hardware in the house is the same japanned metal so I'm thinking it went to something in the house. the kitchen was redone years ago so maybe there was something in there that these went to. i'd sure love to find another instance of these and how they were used.I have to admit I don't really understand bifold hinges. what are they used for?

Interesting find. You should send it to Lori Greene over at http://idighardware.com/ and see if she knows anything. If she doesn't, she probably knows some people that would, or someone reading her blog would know.

That was my original thought Carrera, but I'd suspect that these aren't large enough when it comes to windows and shutters.

Shutters bi fold and were common in kitchens

Is the center piece set up like it recesses into something?  What does the back side look like? 

they are large when laid flat measure 8" across and the middle piece is 4" tall. The house never had shutters though. I'll try Lori Greene also. Thank you! I'd post a pic of the house but can't figure out how to attach a photo to a reply....

the pic is of the back side. I would say the center piece is not really recessed

is there an architectural salvage shop nearby?  They may be able to help

That is a good idea There is an awesome one nearby run by great people. Here is a link to their website:

http://www.bearlymakinitantiques.com/meander-the-mill.html

Thanks!

Pretty sure it is a double-acting door hinge that allows the door to be opened either way. The rectangular part with the two holes is screwed to the door jamb with the "Chicago" face shown toward the wood. The flat plates on the upper left and lower right are then folded over the front face of the rectangular part. When this is done the upper and lower hinge lines on either side of the rectangular piece are in alignment. The  door is attached by screwing plates (not shown) to either side of the door and attaching the door with pins to the end of the plates that were folded underneath. When the door is opened inward the inward pivot about the pins come into play and when outward the outward pivots are used.

That is great information! Thank you. There is a swinging door between the dining room and kitchen but that one has pivot hinges. 

..

LOL!!!!