Antique Surveyor's Graphometer. Good condition. With case. S. XIX

Amazing antique golden-brass graphometer, with all its original component parts and pieces and in perfect working order. This fascinating instrument was made in France in the 19th century and has survived to our days in stunning condition. It can still be used to measure angles and distances in situ. It is composed of different metal parts, among which the brass limb or semicircle stands out. It is divided in 180 degrees and subdivided in minutes. This piece is supported by a brass pillar, to which it is connected by a black-enameled cast-iron clamp. The graphometer was first mentioned in Philippe Danfries work Déclaration de lusage du graphomètre, published in Paris in 1579. The item that we can see in these photographs shows the classic design of these instruments. There are four grooved viewers located on the limbs diameter or fixed rule, two at each end. Two viewers are mounted on an alidade or mobile rule, and the other two ones stand on the fixed rule. By the center of the rules there is a black compass in perfect condition. To use the graphometer, firs the topographer would verify that the instrument was level by using a bubble level and/or a plumb line. This instrument comes dismantled into its original wooden case. Inside the case, the instruments parts can be perfectly organized into the different compartments. As well as the graphometer itself, we can also find a brass portable limb and a template. The storing case is quite sturdy, being made of solid walnut wood and preserving the original iron locks, handle and hinges. Inside the cover we find part of an old sticker with the printed words MEDAILLE DARGENT (silver medal) and EXPOSTION. This antique graphometer preserves all the charm of old 19th-century scientific instruments, as well as their functionality. Measurements: Width: 19 cm / 7.4 in. Height: 18 cm / 7 in.