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| Antiques & Art:Antiques:Science & Medicine:Science Instruments |
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| Seller assumes all responsibility for listing this item. You should contact the seller to resolve any questions before bidding. Auction currency is U.S. dollars ( $ ) unless otherwise noted. |
| Description |
This very rare mid 18th century American compass follows many designs of
instruments made by Irish makers during the 17th and 18th century. The bar-type
main-plate is a form which was adapted by many New England makers during the
18th century, possibly for its simplicity and using less material than the more
typical and later shaped mainplates. The bar main-plate is 13~1/2" in length and
carries two male dovetails which accept the two sight vanes (which appear to be
early replacements).
The face of the compass is a pounded plate (made in the
same manner as period clock faces) with one side finished, and with a hand
engraved star design. The needle ring is also cast and divided in a very early
manner; the divisions and numbers all hand engraved; the numbers oversized and
very stylized. Both the needle ring and compass face are silvered.
Note the
carved field case, these were typical during 18th and early 19th century;
utilized to keep the components of the instrument together and safe during
travel. Note also the needle placement within the case; the needle would be
removed from the compass and stowed in a place in the lid of the case when not
in use. This feature was also typical of many 18th century American compasses,
as the needle arrestor feature was not yet in common use. Early surveyors were
sensitive to the "activity" of the needle when in use, and were probably aware
of wear problems which occurred when the magnetic needle was left on the pivot
needle while traveling.
While late 18th and early 19th century compasses may
still be occasionally acquired, opportunities to acquire mid-18th century,
pre-revolutionay American compasses come quite infrequently.
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