set of drawing instruments
Date: circa 1860
Inventory Number: DW0466
Classification: Etui
Subject:
Maker: English ?
Maker: German ?
Dimensions:
2 x 9 x 9 cm (13/16 x 3 9/16 x 3 9/16 in.)
Accessories: mahogany case
Description:
The instruments are stored in a square, stained mahogany case that opens with two brass hinges along one edge. The inside of the case is lined with purple velvet. The bottom half is contoured to fit the instruments. There is a brass hook on the bottom of the case that hooks into a loop on the top half of the case when closed.
Each of the three instruments has a textured, cylindrical handle and two arms whose distance from one another can be adjusted with a small round screw. Each instrument has one arm with a fixed silver point. Two of the instruments are compasses, one with a lead attachment arm and the other with an adjustable rule pen arm. The third instrument is a dividers with a second fixed point arm.
Each of the three instruments has a textured, cylindrical handle and two arms whose distance from one another can be adjusted with a small round screw. Each instrument has one arm with a fixed silver point. Two of the instruments are compasses, one with a lead attachment arm and the other with an adjustable rule pen arm. The third instrument is a dividers with a second fixed point arm.
Signedunsigned
FunctionThe dividers are used to translate proportionate figures. Compasses are used to draw circles and arc lengths of adjustable sized radius in either lead or ink. The ruling pen works in conjunction with ink or another drawing fluid to produce lines of consistent and adjustable width. Users can twist the screw to adjust the distance between the points. The points are then dipped in drawing liquid. The liquid is stored in between the points using principles of surface tension and released consistently onto a writing surface below.