Box of compasses and measuring and drawing instruments. France, ca.1850.

Box of compasses and measuring and drawing instruments. France, ca.1850.
Box with mahogany and rosewood marquetry, and brass and mother-of-pearl inlay.
Instruments of steel, bone, bakelite, wood and brass.
Complete set.
Key missing.
Measurements: 7 x 33,5 x 22,5 cm.

Complete box of technical drawing instruments in its original case. Among the preserved brass and steel instruments, some of them with bone or wood handles, various types of compasses, extenders and interchangeable parts can be identified. Several polished steel compasses with micrometer screw joints allow precise opening. Some are equipped with interchangeable parts, such as nibs or graphite leads, which made them useful for both tracing and scribing on tracings. It includes a wooden square and a graduated ruler. The latter, made of bone, was commonly used in topography, architecture or mechanical delineation. There are also bakelite stencils (a precursor material of modern plastics), used for drawing technical curves, ovals or gears. The geometry of these stencils suggests applications in mechanics or watchmaking.

The wooden case is decorated with marquetry and inlay, and is internally lined with purple velvet. The label "Compas Perfectionnés" is engraved in gilt, along with a shield indicating the maker's signature.