parallel rule
Date: 1920-1950
Inventory Number: 2003-1-0259
Classification: Parallel rule
Subject:
Maker: ESCO Corporation (founded 1913)
Cultural Region:
Place of Origin:
Dimensions:
1.2 × 45.7 × 6.7 cm (1/2 × 18 × 2 5/8 in.)
Description:
The parallel rule is constituted of two equally sized black enamel rules, connected by two, shorter black enamel bars with rounded ends. One of the edges of one of the rules is textured. The crossbars are attached with a circular metal pivot at each end. The distance between the rules can be expanded up to the length of the crossbars but the rules always remain parallel. There is a raised metal finger hold in the center of each rule. There are two round red pads on the bottom of each rule to prevent scratching.
Signedengraved on each crossbar: ESCO
FunctionParallel rules facilitate the drawing of parallel lines of variable distance apart.