A unique object. A completely unused and uncut
compass card dated “1791”and inscribed
“THOs. SMITH INVTr.” This is the only reference
to Thomas Smith that has come to light during the past
forty years. The card was printed from an engraved
copper plate and is 8” (203mm) in diameter; it is shown
here mounted behind a black bevelled-edge card.
In very good condition. English, 1791.
Ticket Price £790. Email me here
Rare ivory toothpick box, the lid inset with a compass with eight cardinal points and mounted in gold; the
closure button is also in gold.
Inside, a mirror is fixed to the lid of the case and the velvet lined compartments contain an original twisted
gold toothpick with an ear spoon at the other end. Also in the box is a mercury thermometer which is fixed
to the ivory register plate with gold clips and screws. It is graduated in degrees Fahrenheit from 10 to 120
and is marked 'F' (freezing), 'T' (temperate), 'SH' (Summer heat), 'BH' (blood heat) and 'FH' (fever heat).
The reverse is stamped by the maker 'R EBSWORTH 41 FLEET ST LONDON'. Richard Ebsworth,
a philosophical, mathematical and optical instrument maker, was working from 1820 to 1835, but was
only at this address between 1820 and 1826.
It is rare to find an item of domestic medicine made by a mainstream scientific instrument maker, and
which can be dated to within half a dozen years. Width of box 2.6 inches (66mm). Very good condition.
English 1820-1826. A beautiful object, Ticket Price £750. Email me here
