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Object Overview
The barometer's case is crafted in a classic English style, featuring a base of fine mahogany veneer with a beautiful, textured grain pattern. The veneer’s pattern forms a unique design with symmetrical strips radiating from the center, reminiscent of a "sunburst," "fan-shaped," or "chevron" pattern. This effect is achieved by cutting the wood at a specific angle to the grain, creating a visual play of light and shadow that emphasizes the wood’s texture and adds a sense of depth. Along the edge of the main body runs a delicate inlay of precious ebony, elegantly outlining the instrument.
At the top is a triangular pediment, which gives the entire case architectural strictness and completeness. The pediment is precisely carved with smooth edges, free of excessive decorative details, lending an impression of elegance and restraint. Beneath the pediment is a cornice consisting of two horizontal tiers that draw attention to the dial placed just below. This cornice adds depth to the structure, giving the case a sense of visual solidity.
The dial, made of silvered brass, is surrounded by a brass bezel, which contrasts harmoniously with the warm tone of the wood. The bezel gives the barometer a subtle gleam and simultaneously accentuates the elegance of the main mechanism. The dial features a scale in London inches of mercury with standard weather indication text, where, instead of the traditional "Change," the term "Changeable" is used, written in italics. The brand name is also inscribed in italics.
7382
late Vidie
brass, glass, nickel silver, steel, wood
At the bottom of the case, there is a smaller cornice mirroring the design of the upper one, but less massive, which lends the entire construction proportionality and balance.
Negretti & Zambra were opticians, and optical, mathematical, philosophical, nautical, and photographic instrument makers of London, England. The firm was established in 1850 as a partnership between Henry Negretti and Joseph Zambra. They initially made mostly meteorological instruments such as barometers and thermometers, and were responsible for significant improvements in the designs of these instruments. For these they won awards in the International Exhibitions in both London and Paris. Shortly after the retirement of John Newman in 1859, Negretti & Zambra acquired Newman’s company from his son, John Frederick Newman.
Following the deaths of the founders, the families of Negretti & Zambra continued the business. They began to make optical instruments including telescopes, theodolites, levels, gunsights and others. The company produced a wide range of scientific, mathematical and optical instruments.
Following WWI they decided to discontinue manufacturing optical instruments to focus on industrial, aeronautical, and meteorological instruments. In 1919 Negretti & Zambra was listed as a member of the British Optical Instrument Manufacturers’ Association.
The company of Negretti & Zambra prospered, moving to successively larger premises until the business was taken over in 1981 by Western Scientific.