4542

Britain, Circa 1780

HADLEY'S QUADRANT BY RICHARD ROWLAND

Signed on the brass index arm "Richard Rowland" (Britain, 1761-1840). Ebony "T" frame with inset ivory scale calibrated from 0 to 95, and divided in 5 arc minute increments. Long flat brass index arm with ivory vernier and a single thumb screw stop, the type which predates the tangent screw fine adjustment feature introduced in the Late 18th Century. Additionally includes an ivory name plate (blank), dual peephole sight, mirrors, brass feet and other details. Lacking box.
Length of radius arm 18". Width of scale 14.75".
Condition: Overall excellent condition. The ivory scales are loose and need a touch of glue to hold the scale in place.

The absence of a condition report does not imply an object is free of defects. All items may have normal signs of age and wear commensurate with their age; these issues will likely not be mentioned in the condition report. Please contact Eldred's before the auction with any condition questions. Questions about condition will not be answered after purchase. Condition reports are provided as a courtesy, and we are not responsible for any errors or omissions. Important note on frames: Frames are not guaranteed to be in the same condition as they are in the item photograph. Due to handling and shipping, many frames, especially antique ones, are prone to losses. If you have questions about the condition of a frame, please contact us prior to the auction. 

  • Provenance:
    Christie's South Kensington, London, 1985.
    The Kelton Collection of Marine Art & Artifacts.
  • Exhibited:
    Pacific Asia Museum at USC: "Trade and Treasure Exhibition", 1987.

    Notes:
    This slightly later quadrant exhibits many advances over the John Urings instrument. While it is still large and fitted with two sights, it has more brass parts for greater rigidity. The index arc has been expanded to a useful 95 and the index scale is ivory, which has much greater visibility. The main sight on the right has two peep holes. They are different sizes to compensate for the brilliance of the sun or for use at night. It has been fitted with an ivory vernier scale, a practice that began about 1750. The vernier scale makes very accurate measurements possible when the pointer lies between marks on the main index scale. Its invention is credited to Pierre Vernier (1580-1637), who put it in use circa 1631.

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March 1, 2023 9:30 AM EST
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