- Subject
- Calculation
- Item type
- Object
- Physical material
- Boxwood
- Object type
- Sector
- Inventory No
- 41284
Description
Geometrical calculating instrument. 12 inch radius, brass hinge
Hinged legs carry pairs of scales used with dividers. Using the principle of similar triangles and adjusting the hinge, calculation is performed by proportion. First publicised in 1598, the instrument was popular until the 19th century. Though produced in various sizes, materials and specialised versions, the basic format remained unchanged.
