J. Halden & Co. compass box, England, ca. 1910.

Drawing instrument box J. Halden & Co. Ltd. England, ca. 1910.
Set of mathematical and technical drawing instruments housed in a varnished wooden box, with brass shield-lettering on the top. The interior features moiré silk lining on the lid (visibly deteriorated) and multiple compartments lined in blue velvet. The box retains its original key.
The set includes steel compasses of various types (spring compasses, extenders, adapters, nibs, drawing pencils), as well as several slide rules and templates made of bone or vegetable ivory. Technical brushes and brass and steel accessories are also preserved.
The instruments are organized on two levels, with a removable upper tray, which allowed the user a quick and orderly access to the tools according to their use.

It shows evident signs of use and wear; some minor elements are missing. Lid lining is frayed. Structurally stable box with functional key.

Measurements: 4.5 x 20 x 15.5 cm.

Founded in 1878 and active until 1969, J. Halden & Co. Ltd. was one of Britain's foremost manufacturers of technical equipment, supplying instruments to engineers, draughtsmen and scientists. This box perfectly illustrates their attention to detail and practical approach, combining precision with a robust and organized design. Its contents and structure make it a very representative piece of the British standard of the early 20th century.