Mini Scale for Sorting Yarns and Fibers. England, 19th Century. Complete and in Case

Mini Scale for Sorting Yarns and Fibers. England, 19th Century. Complete and in Case

Rare miniature scale for sorting fine yarns, manufactured in England in the 19th century. The balance, a rare and precise item, comes in its original case and is accompanied by three identification plates. It is made of gilded brass with a series of chrome-plated rods for operation and adjustment. The balance is in very good condition, making it an original and intriguing piece worthy of a museum of rare antiques. On the lid of the case, there is a clear inscription describing the device and indicating the name of the original manufacturer or distributor: YARN ASSORTING BALANCE - J. CASARTELLI & SONS - 43 MARKET STREET MANCHESTER.

Balances used to sort natural fibers are similar to classic Roman balances. They consist of a metal mast supporting the oscillating rod, which in turn is balanced by another vertical rod with a brass weight acting as a pendulum. The thread or fiber to be tested is hung from one end of the rod; although we do not know how they were used, brass plates were attached to distinguish between different types of fiber. This balance is a very simple model, but there were also others that determined the quality of the fiber based on its weight.

On the metal plate attached to the top of the balance, we can see the inscription "Made by J. Casartelli & Sons - Manchester" engraved. The three gold-plated brass plates that accompany the scale are square and of different sizes, to establish different weights. The largest is marked with the number 1 and corresponds to cotton; No. 2 is medium-sized and its weight corresponds to that of wool, while No. 3 is the smallest and is used to identify linen. All the plates are engraved with the manufacturer's name and the city.

Due to its rarity and attractive design, this small scale for classifying fibers is a charming item that will complement a fine collection of curious antiques.

Dimensions: Width: 6 cm. Height: 7 cm.