A suspended lifting apparatus for grasping and releasing unwieldy objects. As the apparatus is raised, a hinged mechanism causes the weight of the object being lifted to draw extendable lever arms of the apparatus inward, thereby gripping the object. An articulating scooping mechanism at the bottom of the lever arms helps to grip or cradle the object as it is lifted, ensuring that it maintains a firm grip on the object. An offset mechanism is used to move the lever arms into an open position and hold them in that position before lifting, until the apparatus is in the proper position.