Lot 217 email save

Gold Scales, c.1850, an equal arm balanc

Gold Scales, c.1850, an equal arm balance scale. The copper beam is covered with inspection counter marks. On each side of the beam F M 10 K is prominently stamped. The base of the scales has two square thick blocks of wood, stacked one atop the other, upon which stands the graceful copper center post. The beam has a fixed pointer which must point straight upwards when equilibrium is attained. Each round copper pan has three iron chains to steady the heavy gold bars and ponderous weights in the balancing process. Dimensions: 29"= width of beam; 45 1/4"= height of central beam; 15" = diameter of each pan. This scale was acquired years ago by a prominent Los Angeles book dealer, Jake Zeitlin, who claim he found it in an old bank in the California gold country. This attractive piece graced the Zeitlin book store's collection of scientific instruments for years prior to its purchase by the current consignor.

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