Barometers Realm

At first glance, the absence of a traditional dial seems unexpected, but in reality, it’s a clever design choice. In its place is a flat protective glass with beveled edges, creating a fascinating visual effect. On the inside of this glass is a mercury column scale, measured in centimeters, executed using the reverse glass painting technique — an ancient and unique method used by artisans to create decorative panels, religious objects, and elegant elements on various items, including mirrors, barometers, and clocks. As the eye glides along this scale, it feels as though it touches the boundaries of space and time, where the barometer served as a bridge between humanity and the unpredictable forces of the sea.

The reverse glass painting technique not only adds a decorative flair to the barometer but also infuses it with additional symbolism. The standard weather indications in French, along with the textual forecasts by Fitzroy, applied using the same method, link the instrument to the maritime world and the scientific discoveries of the era. These indications do more than just inform — they bring the device to life, transforming it into a universal tool for weather forecasting and understanding the moods of the ocean. Every wind direction, every prediction becomes part of a complex forecasting mechanism that may once have saved countless lives.

Two thermometer scales — Reaumur and Celsius — particularly stand out, both executed with the same precise and refined painting technique. Together, they create a visual symphony in which every detail plays a distinct role. The glass tube of the alcohol thermometer, glowing with a deep red hue, is positioned on the front surface of the glass, adding a vibrant touch. This “cherry on top” breathes life into the device, symbolizing the passion and energy hidden within this delicate instrument.