I think that protected a pilot light or basically channeled the flame to light the main burner on gas appliances.Not sure what it's technical name would be.
The technical term "thingie" has always served me well.
Simulant,
My 2 cents...the "legs" look as if they may have been meant to be driven into wood (or concrete). Looks familiar...I have an image in my head of a this thingie (see!) supporting one end of a large, possibly rotating, wooden dowel/rod. However, I look forward to learning the true answer that I am sure will come.