Louis XVI Torricelli Barometer in Carved and Gilded Wooden Frame, France, 18th Century

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Torricelli barometer, carved and gilded wooden frame, louis xvi, 18th century – france

technical data
type: torricelli barometer
materials: carved … Read more Torricelli barometer, carved and gilded wooden frame, louis xvi, 18th century – france

technical data
type: torricelli barometer
materials: carved and gilded wooden frame
style: louis xvi
period: 18th century
country: france
good condition considering its age and use
overall dimensions: 88 x 53 x 10 cm
dimensions without frame: 48 x 41 cm

a magnificent barometer in the louis xvi style, dating from 18th century france. It features an octagonal profile decorated with a large carved and gilded wooden frame. The barometer is an instrument created in 1643 by evangelista torricelli to measure atmospheric pressure.

the barometer readings are written in brown ink on a white circle set within a blue frame. The barometer features a series of inscriptions indicating weather conditions, in clockwise order: variable (variable), beau temps (fair weather), beau fixe (fair and stable weather), très sec (very dry), tempête (storm), grande pluie (heavy rain), and pluie (rain). It also has two needles: a central one that measures atmospheric pressure and a reference needle used to manually indicate whether the pressure has changed.

the upper cartouche reads “baromètre” (barometer), and the lower one reads “selon torricelli” (according to torricelli), referring to the inventor of the mercury barometer's design and mechanism. Both inscriptions are framed with vegetal motifs. On the back is the barometer mechanism designed by torricelli, with a large glass tube running the length of the piece and a smaller tube that contained the liquid mercury.

the barometer's frame exhibits characteristics typical of the louis xvi style. Characterized by clean lines and a return to classicism, typical of neoclassicism, the curved and sinuous lines of the rococo were eliminated, giving way to a much more austere style with refined lines. It is composed of multiple sections, from the exterior to the interior, featuring an outer edge or molding, a section decorated with palmette leaves—a motif reminiscent of classical antiquity and present throughout the history of art—a section decorated with a string of pearls, a half-round molding, a small plain section, and an inner edge with zigzag decoration.

at the top of the frame are elements related to the french monarchy, such as the imperial eagle in the center, below which is a small bird gazing at it and a quiver of arrows. All of this is surrounded by a large laurel wreath and ornamented with flowers and leaves characteristic of the period.

shipping costs will be paid by the buyer according to the dimensions, weight, and destination. Custom-made professional packaging is included in the shipping costs. And personalized shipping, with tracking number and guarantee.

the buyer will be responsible for paying any import duties and associated taxes in the destination country, if applicable. Please note the seller's disclaimer regarding any customs charges, as these are levied in the destination country and the amount payable is determined by that country's customs authority. If an export permit is required, the buyer is responsible for the associated costs. The cost will vary depending on the value of the artwork being exported. See less