Barometers Realm

This Russian Empire black-lacquered cased aneroid barometer from the late 19th century is an outstanding example of applied artistry and engineering precision of its time. Manufactured by Emil Scholz, the instrument seamlessly combines the functionality of a scientific device with the elegance of decorative design.

The barometer is housed in a round, deep black wooden case reminiscent of polished ebony. The case has a toroidal shape with a distinctly sculpted profile: the front surface is adorned with two concentric ornamental bands, each with fine beaded molding along the inner and outer edges. These relief borders lend the object a restrained decorative quality that echoes classical applied art of the 19th century. A serial or inventory number “5000” is stamped on the reverse. The case is also fitted with a brass suspension ring.

The 8.5 cm open dial is made of printed card and features a concentric barometric scale calibrated in centimetres of mercury, ranging from 67 to 79. Surrounding the scale are detailed textual weather indications, printed in uppercase using pre-revolutionary Russian orthography. The dial is protected by its original thick beveled mineral glass, mounted in a brass bezel with an inner reflective ring.

The set hand is adjusted by a brass milled head fixed through a hole in the centre of the glass.

The barometer operates on a conventional movement tensioned on a C-spring. The mechanism is carefully finished to be visually impressive when viewed through the open dial.

This finely crafted instrument is both a tool of measurement and a reflection of the artistic spirit of Imperial Russia.