Antique Walnut Carpenter Compass by E. Ducretet, 1870s

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Description

Large, antique, carpenter's divider/scribe compass / drawing compass (aka "compas de charpentier" in French), by Eugène Ducretet, circa 1870's/ 1880's.

… Read more Large, antique, carpenter's divider/scribe compass / drawing compass (aka "compas de charpentier" in French), by Eugène Ducretet, circa 1870's/ 1880's.

It has long, tapered arms crafted from solid walnut with a beautiful, rich, aged patina, and a simple, metal pivot with a screw bolt at the top, that functions perfectly, allowing the legs to swing open smoothly and/or lock or unlock the legs. It finishes with fine, steel or iron points fixed at both lower ends, for scribing circles, arcs, or transferring precise measurements directly onto wood (see photos.)

The connection to Ducretet points to a highly significant piece of French scientific and industrial history. Founded by Eugène Ducretet in Paris during the late 19th century, Ducretet (later Ducretet & Lejeune and Ducretet & Roger), was one of France's premiere "constructeurs d'instruments de précision" (precision scientific instrument makers.)

While Eugène Ducretet is famously known for high-end laboratory physics gear and wireless telegraphs, his workshop also manufactured high-precision mathematical, drafting, and geometric drawing instruments for structural architects, military engineers, and master builders.

Piece is in overall very good, original and vintage condition. It is untouched, only been gently dusted. No other products have been used, to preserve its integrity and original patina, as much as possible. There are some light marks, signs of age and previous use commensurate with time, such as old woodworm marks and rust, as it can be expected for a piece over 150 years old (see photos.)

Maker's marks are present, as they were branded on multiple areas, on both sides of the piece (see photos.)

All photos taken in natural, outdoor light, so colors may vary, based upon brightness, reflections of stone, angles and perspective in which they are viewed.

Listed dimensions are from the first photo. This piece has an attribution mark,
I am sure that it is completely authentic and take full responsibility for any authenticity
issues arising from misattribution See less