One of the greatest benefits of dealing with fine antique clocks and barometers is searching for the better items and occasionally keeping something special for your own personal collection .Without doubt this is the finest stick barometer I have ever seen from the Victorian period which has remained in the most wonderful , original and undamaged condition.It was acquired about 20 years ago (pre-internet days) from an auction at four times the top estimate and was underbid the UKs foremost barometer dealer at the time and has remained firmly hung on my wall ever since. This is the first time it has been offered for sale since that time.The illustrations give you a good idea of the instrument but I urge interested parties to view the item in the flesh as it really is much better than the pictures.I believe that it is constructed in stained lime wood , which is the timber of choice for master carvers, and is carved from the solid.The main carcase, cistern cover and door have been carved separately but the decorative carvings have not been applied independently.The construction is quite remarkable as is the quality of the carvings which are truly exceptional.The silvered and engraved scales are signed J Braund , London who is unrecorded as a barometer maker but John Braund was an eminent designer for important houses and palaces who drew many exhibits at the Grand Exhibitions in London and Paris and published these prints in , what is now , a reference book .Due to its immense quality it would tend to suggest that it was made for Mr Braund on behalf of a very important and wealthy customer.The overall style is of an instrument from the early 1700s and has carved cherubs and swags .It is a dark reddish colour similar to walnut/mahogany and is in the most remarkable condition and has no damage or losses whatsoever save a shrinkage crack at the bottom of the door . For such an object I would describe the condition as virtually perfect.<...