French portable precision scale in gilded brass and oak wood, circa 1880.

France circa 1880.

A two-pan precision analytical balance, designed for extremely accurate weighings, typically in the range of milligrams or tenths of a milligram. An essential instrument in chemistry laboratories, pharmacies, and mints for weighing precious metals. The display case is made of glass with an oak wood frame. It serves an aesthetic purpose, but is fundamental to its operation: it protects the delicate mechanism from air currents and dust, which would distort measurements. The functional components (central column, beam, stirrups) are crafted in brass. The central brass column supports the beam (the horizontal bar). Turning the external knob activates an internal mechanism that lifts the beam off its resting supports (the “knife-edges”), balancing it for weighing. The metal pans are suspended by thin metallic wires. The right pan supports an additional glass pan. The wooden base features a drawer containing a fitted compartment for a set of standard weights.

Misure 12” – 31 CM H 10,75” – 27 CM L 5” – 12,5 CM D

Codice REF: M779