Box with slide rules. England, ca.1880.

Box with slide rules. England, ca.1880.
Wood and bakelite rulers.
Walnut wood box, with brass gusset and keyhole.
Screws missing from hinge.
Complete set.
Exhibits wear consistent with age and use.
Measurements: 4 x 35 x 10 cm.

This English-made case houses slide rules with metric scales, analog instruments that revolutionized the work of engineers, scientists, mathematicians and astronomers for centuries. The case itself is an example of Victorian utilitarian craftsmanship: made of wood, with a polished finish that gives it an elegant sobriety. The base of the rulers is most likely of high quality wood (possibly boxwood or mahogany), selected for its dimensional stability, warp resistance and ease of accurate engraving. The sliding surfaces, where the logarithmic scales are located, are covered with bakelite. The variety of rulers present in the box respond to a complete set, designed to address a wide spectrum of technical calculations.