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History of Science Museum

Napier Compass and Rule Set, by William Elliott, London, 1830s or 1840s

Inventory Number 14686


Acknowledgement: © History of Science Museum, University of Oxford, inv.14686

Item type
Object
Provenance
Presented by H. R. Bristow in 2015. Purchased by the donor from Peter Delehar at the Scientific Instrument Fair, London.
Primary inscriptions
Rule stamped "W. ELLIOTT. LONDON" Inside case lid "W. ELLIOTT | OPTICIAN | 268 HOLBORN", outside marked "C"
Object type
Rule
Dimensions
Height: 87mm Width: 19mm Depth: 18mm Weight: 49g
Inventory No
14686
Accession Number
2015-3/8

Description

Small silver pair of compasses and small ivory rule in a delicate black leather case, together with a small cylindrical ivory box for pencil leads. The case opens at both ends, the main opening flap marked "C" (for compasses), the other giving access to the small box. Maker's name and address gold-blocked on inside of case. Matches item 14685 (set of offset scales), though acquired separately. The silver compasses are not signed or hallmarked. The points fold inside the arms, and swivel to offer divider tips, a pen, and a pencil holder (with pencil lead).