Antique Set of Trade Weights in Very Good Condition. France, Circa 1900

Bronze weight set made in the early 20th or late 19th century (circa 1900), coming from France and in good condition. The set is complete and there are no pieces missing, not even the smallest ones that usually get lost with the trace of time. It is composed of 12 weights and the biggest one weighs 500 grams. They all come in their original case, made of solid walnut wood and with compartments for every piece. The case is also wonderfully preserved. The weighs remain in great condition. At the top of each piece we can see the engraved weigh in grams and different pairs of initials: A.R., C.T. They also show a series of hallmarks, in some cases many of them. These marks were stamped by commercial inspectors who visited the shops where scales were used (groceries, pharmacies) in order to check that the weighs were not loaded. After the checking the inspector would mark the weighs every year as a guarantee of the commerces good practice. The hallmarks can be seen at the top of the weights, and also at the sides and the base. They are always capital letters corresponding to different inspectors and years. As stated before, the weight set comes in a gorgeous walnut wooden case, rustic in style and well preserved too. Inside the box there is a solid wooden piece with several compartments where the weights fit perfectly. Outside the wood looks beautiful and light-colored and boasts a number of brown shades. The case preserves the original brass hinges and shutting hooks. Complete and authentic, this weight set is bound to become part of a good collection of commerce-related antiques. Measurements (Open Case): Width: 2.5 in / 6.5 cm. Depth: 1.5 in / 4 cm.