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A153-25 · Aneroid
late 19th century
Object Overview
This brass-cased barometer on a burr oak stand, dating from the late 19th century, was manufactured by the renowned French company Dubois & Casse, as evidenced, among other things, by the company's minimalist logo on the back of the case: an anchor flanked by the initials D and C.
The movement is housed in a heavy spun brass case with a suspension ring. A fine brass bezel at the front secures a heavy bevelled crystal fitted with a setting index hand, which can be adjusted via a small milled brass knob mounted through a central hole in the glass.
Beneath the protective glass sits an open cardboard dial, framed by a brass reflector ring. The concentrically arranged barometric scale is calibrated in London inches of mercury, a subdivision of the imperial foot from the English system of measures. The scale is divided into twentieths and ranges from 26 to 31 inches. Along the outer edge, detailed weather terms are printed in uppercase letters, using a mix of typefaces. At the bottom of the dial, the words “Aneroid Barometer” are printed.
n/a
aneroid capsule tensioned on a C-spring
brass, cardboard, carved wood, glass
The corrugated nickel-silver chamber, 7 cm in diameter, is visible through the open dial on the rear side of the brass frame plate. Above it sits a strong, curved spring, mounted on threaded posts fixed to the plate — the square, bluish screw heads are characteristic of D&C craftsmanship. A lever attached to the upper edge of the C-spring connects via a linkage to a second lever mounted on a rod held in two small, finely crafted brass brackets. This rod also supports a spherical brass counterweight. The lever is linked to a chain, which is twisted and secured to the pointer shaft. A spiral spring attached to the pointer axis maintains the chain’s tension.
The barometer is mounted on a low, carved stand, with a base made from solid oak and a recessed bowl carved from rare and stunning burr oak. Burr wood, formed from abnormal tree growths or burls, is valued for its dense, wavy, and irregular grain, making it highly decorative.
The sides of the stand display a relief texture that mimics a distinctive wood grain pattern. This effect is typically achieved through poinçonné work — a stippling or stamping technique used to create a textured background that contrasts with the polished wood around it. On the front of the stand, within this same textured field, is a carved motif of stylized oak branches with leaves.
The combination of wood and metal creates a perfectly balanced composition. The warm, noble tones of the brass and natural wood form a harmonious ensemble typical of both scientific and decorative instruments of the late 19th century. The contrast of materials — the smooth gleam of metal against the living grain of burr oak — emphasizes the refined craftsmanship of this piece.