Aneroid Barometer c. 1860

This Aneroid Barometer was made in Paris by E. Bourdon, though the specific date remains unknown. It's constructed primarily of brass, with a wooden handle. What’s fascinating here is the combination of scientific function and handcrafted detailing. Look at the way the brass has been worked and polished, giving it a warm, golden hue. The precisely calibrated dial, with its delicate script, speaks to the precision required for scientific instruments. But the use of brass, a material often associated with decorative arts, and the addition of a turned wooden handle, elevates it beyond mere utility. Bourdon, as the name on the dial suggests, took pride in his patented technology. This was a time of intense industrial advancement, where new processes and materials were reshaping society. The barometer reflects this moment, bridging the gap between artisanal production and mass manufacturing. It’s a reminder that even the most practical objects can be imbued with a sense of craftsmanship and care.