Joseph Czech gimballed magnetic compass with arm
Date: circa 1780
Inventory Number: DW0134
Classification: Magnetic Compass
Subject:
Maker: Joseph Czech (18th century)
Cultural Region:
Place of Origin:
Dimensions:
compass: 19 × 9.5 × 3 cm (7 1/2 × 3 3/4 × 1 3/16 in.)
case: 20 × 10.6 × 3.4 cm (7 7/8 × 4 3/16 × 1 5/16 in.)
Accessories: fitted leather case with plush lining and brass clasp
Description:
Gimballed brass compass in round frame with a rectangular arm.
The compass needle is bi-colored. Engraved on the brass face is a wind rose with 16 points. The cardinal points are labeled: S (north); OR (east); M (south); and OC (west). North is also marked with a fleur-de-lis.
Engraved around the circumference of the frame is a scale divided for azimuth ranging from 180 to 0 to 180, graduated into ones and tens.
There is a circular hole through the frame's arm near the compass end. At the opposite end on the back of the arm is a round knob.
Visible on the back of the arm are several bolts (securing the arm to the frame) and a raised tab (at the center of the compass).
The compass is stored in a fitted leather case with plush lining and brass clasp.
The compass needle is bi-colored. Engraved on the brass face is a wind rose with 16 points. The cardinal points are labeled: S (north); OR (east); M (south); and OC (west). North is also marked with a fleur-de-lis.
Engraved around the circumference of the frame is a scale divided for azimuth ranging from 180 to 0 to 180, graduated into ones and tens.
There is a circular hole through the frame's arm near the compass end. At the opposite end on the back of the arm is a round knob.
Visible on the back of the arm are several bolts (securing the arm to the frame) and a raised tab (at the center of the compass).
The compass is stored in a fitted leather case with plush lining and brass clasp.
Signedengraved on arm near circle: Joseph Czech In Wienn
FunctionFor determining direction with respect to the earth's magnetic poles. The compass is hung in gimballs, allowing it to remain flat despite changes in the frame's inclination.
Curatorial RemarksMissing one latch on left side of case and one hook eye at end of case.
Some detachment and tearing of the leather covering on the case.
It is unclear whether this compass was used for surveying or navigation. See two similar compasses, DW0135, DW0136.
Some detachment and tearing of the leather covering on the case.
It is unclear whether this compass was used for surveying or navigation. See two similar compasses, DW0135, DW0136.
ProvenancePurchased by David P. Wheatland from Alain Brieux in Paris, 1965.