set of 3 anthropometric instruments in case to make clothing patterns
Date: circa 1860
Inventory Number: 1997-1-0951
Classification: Anthropometric Measuring Tools
Subject:
Maker: French
Cultural Region:
Dimensions:
multiple-caliper frame, closed as in case: 3 x 39.5 x 36.5 cm (1 3/16 x 15 9/16 x 14 3/8 in.)
large caliper: 2.8 x 40.2 x 28 cm (1 1/8 x 15 13/16 x 11 in.)
smaller caliper: 2.8 x 34 x 20.5 cm (1 1/8 x 13 3/8 x 8 1/16 in.)
case: 5.5 x 50 x 42 cm (2 3/16 x 19 11/16 x 16 9/16 in.)
Accessories: case
Description:
Brass frame 15x14 inches with all sorts of scales extending out in all directions in one plane. Many of the scales have movable calipers or arms. There are also two other calipers in the case. Some of the scales are marked in centimeters. The screw heads are nickel-plated.
The case is covered in leather and lined in brown velvet. It is fitted to the instruments and has a brass handle.
The case is covered in leather and lined in brown velvet. It is fitted to the instruments and has a brass handle.
Signedunsigned
Inscribedon a caliper arm and on the main-frame instrument: BREVETE / S.G.D.G.
on both of the above: 365
on both of the above: 365
FunctionThis is a case of instruments designed to measure the human body. Measuring the body was the discipline of anthropometry. Anthropologists, physicians, and criminologists used the data of body dimensions in their research and diagnosis of both normal and abnormal conditions. Anthropometry was a tool in the 19th century for the study of the races of man, gender, moral capacities, and intelligence. Craniometry and phrenology are related sub-disciplines.
Nonetheless, recent research has suggested that such measuring kits for the body like this one were not for anthropological use, but were designed to make clothing patterns!
Nonetheless, recent research has suggested that such measuring kits for the body like this one were not for anthropological use, but were designed to make clothing patterns!
Curatorial RemarksList 10 No. 37.
Another example of this instrument set is found in the Powerhouse Museum in Sydney, Australia (inv. 86/613), where it is connected to criminology studies.
There has been a suggestion that this is actually a tailor's pattern maker, and nothing to do with anthropometric studies.
Another example of this instrument set is found in the Powerhouse Museum in Sydney, Australia (inv. 86/613), where it is connected to criminology studies.
There has been a suggestion that this is actually a tailor's pattern maker, and nothing to do with anthropometric studies.
Provenancefrom Alain Brieux, Paris; David P. Wheatland, Topsfield, MA; gift to CHSI.