Epact Scientific Instruments of Medieval and Renaissance Europe

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Surveying Instrument
Unsigned
16th century; German
Wood and gilt brass; 847 mm in length

This long wooden rod, with sights at both ends, bears a gilded brass disk. The position of the disk is slightly eccentric. The disc can rotate and remain fixed in a certain position by means of the heavier lower part, which functions as a counterweight. A steel pointer is placed on the disk.

The instrument, probably German, was used as a rule in topographical surveying for civil and military purposes. It was brought from Germany by Prince Mattias de' Medici in 1635.

Istituto e Museo di Storia della Scienza, Firenze
Inventory no. 691

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