Rare Early 18th Century Queen Anne Walnut Stick Barometer, Circa 1705-1710 1

Rare Early 18th Century Queen Anne Walnut Stick Barometer, Circa 1705-1710 2

Rare Early 18th Century Queen Anne Walnut Stick Barometer, Circa 1705-1710 3

Rare Early 18th Century Queen Anne Walnut Stick Barometer, Circa 1705-1710 4

Rare Early 18th Century Queen Anne Walnut Stick Barometer, Circa 1705-1710 5

Rare Early 18th Century Queen Anne Walnut Stick Barometer, Circa 1705-1710 6

Rare Early 18th Century Queen Anne Walnut Stick Barometer Circa 1705-1710-1

Rare Early 18th Century Queen Anne Walnut Stick Barometer Circa 1705-1710-2

Rare Early 18th Century Queen Anne Walnut Stick Barometer Circa 1705-1710-3

Rare Early 18th Century Queen Anne Walnut Stick Barometer Circa 1705-1710-4

Rare Early 18th Century Queen Anne Walnut Stick Barometer Circa 1705-1710-5

Rare Early 18th Century Queen Anne Walnut Stick Barometer Circa 1705-1710-6

Rare Early 18th Century Queen Anne Walnut Stick Barometer, Circa 1705-1710

£10,500

Rare Early 18th Century Queen Anne Walnut Stick Barometer, Circa 1705-1710

A fine and rare Queen Anne walnut barometer, unsigned, but exhibiting all the stylistic characteristics of the first quarter of the 18th century, circa 1705-1710. Made in the manner of John Patrick, the barometer features elaborately engraved silvered brass register plates.

The dual scales, designed to indicate air pressure, can be adjusted vertically to account for different altitudes. The right-hand scale includes a vernier for precise readings and also serves as a setting hand, while the left-hand scale is marked for summer readings, and the right for winter. The Torricelli tube is concealed behind a large, half-round walnut cover.

The cistern, fitted with a leather bottom, features a minuscule hole to allow air pressure changes to register accurately. The barometer’s arched top is adorned with three ball finials on bases, and the area above the scales is finely pierced and flanked by delicate twist columns, which rest on a moulded support. Two shaped drop finials, suspended beneath the support and aligned with the columns, enhance the instrument’s elegant design.

Note: The suspension hole in the pediment is original and consistent with barometers from this period.

The barometer has been entirely conserved and is presented in excellent condition.

Condition

Good. Wear consistent with age and use.

Dimensions

Height: 100 cm (39.5 inches).

Literature

E. Banfield, Barometers, Stick or Cistern Tube, Trowbridge, 1985, pp. 27-35.
N. Goodison, English Barometers 1680-1860, Woodbridge, 1977, pp. 49 (Plate 8), 201 (Plate 133).

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