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Object Overview
This unique mahogany stick barometer, crafted in 1780 by the great master Peter Dollond of London, is a true embodiment of luxury and sophistication, concealed within a restrained form. Its mahogany case, veneered with noble wood, captivates with its warm, deep texture. Crowning the design is an elegant swan-neck pediment with a brass finial, bestowing upon the barometer an air of graceful confidence and refinement. The reservoir is protected by a hemispherical cover of solid mahogany with a delicate boxwood inlay at its center. This protective cover, secured to the case by a metal band, accentuates the harmony of forms and the perfect balance of the entire device.
Unadorned, square register plates engraved with an London inch scale surprise with their austere elegance and aristocratic simplicity. Their dimensions —19 cm by 9.2 cm —nonetheless make a striking contrast to traditional barometers, lending the instrument an air of distinction. The manual vernier, carefully positioned on the scale, adds a finishing touch, allowing for precise atmospheric pressure adjustments and introducing an interactive element to the barometer’s functionality. Every detail, every line, and every engraving is crafted with the precision and grace worthy of a master’s hand.
n/a
cistern
brass, glass, wood
The cistern, made of boxwood with a leather bottom and a securing screw, evokes associations with ancient artisan traditions, preserving their craftsmanship down to the finest detail. This barometer undoubtedly epitomizes refined luxury, with each element a testament to the meticulous work invested by the great master Peter Dollond, whose name became synonymous with excellence.
Peter Dollond, founder of the renowned London dynasty of opticians and makers of precision instruments, imbued this barometer with the skill and talent that earned him fame around the world. Dollond became a legend in his time, and this barometer stands as a witness to his unparalleled artistry and mastery, leaving a lasting mark in history as one of the greatest craftsmen of his field.