Sold: A Georgian Travelling/explorers Compass 18th Century

Name: A Georgian Travelling/explorers Compass
Brand: Antique
SKU: SA1229334
Availability: SoldOut

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Cataloguer’s note

Written by Sellingantiques from the dealer’s photographs and listing

ObjectScientific Instruments
Period18th century
StyleGeorgian
MaterialMahogany, Brass, Glass
ColourDark Brown
MotifsHinged wooden lid, Brass hook clasp, Circular brass bezel, Glass protective dial

This Georgian scientific instrument is a travelling or explorer's compass housed in a square mahogany case with a dark brown finish. The box measures 6.5 cm wide by 6.5 cm deep and dates from the 1820s to 1830s. The piece opens on brass triangular hinges to reveal a clean compass dial protected by glass and fitted inside a circular brass bezel. Additional hardware includes a brass hook clasp on the front edge and a small stop pin visible near the corner of the upright wooden lid. On an office desk or library table today, this portable compass provides a decorative display piece reflecting the era of early to mid-nineteenth-century exploration. The warm tone of the polished timber combines with the exposed metallic fittings to complement traditional interiors and study settings. The compact proportions allow the instrument to sit securely upon flat surfaces while serving as a conversational antique accessory.

FAQs

A Georgian box compass is a portable magnetic directional instrument from the eighteenth century, housed within a protective hinged wooden casing, typically crafted from mahogany or fruitwood.

These instruments were predominantly constructed using hardwood cases, brass bezels, glass covers, steel magnetic needles, and hand-printed or engraved paper dials.

Authentic period pieces feature hand-joined wooden cases, brass hook-and-eye closures or original latches, hand-drawn or printed compass roses, and natural patination on the metal components.

An antique compass serves as a refined accents object when displayed on an office desk, curated shelf, or atop a stack of leather-bound books within a study or library setting.

Keep the item in a climate-controlled environment away from direct sunlight and excess humidity, dusting gently with a soft cloth and avoiding abrasive chemical polishes on the brass and wood.

Opus Antiques

A Georgian Travelling/explorers Compass

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