Miscellaneous

  PrevNext  

This lot is not illustrated.

Lot 1564    SESSION 6 (9.30AM WEDNESDAY 26 JULY)    Miscellaneous

Estimate $150
Bid at live.noble.com.au
SOLD $100

CHINESE "OPIUM" SCALES, these are also a type of steelyard scales, described below, pan diameter 35mm, as stored with a wooden box in the shape of a fish or vioin, lot includes a weight for counterbalance; another similar 47mm diameter pan of similar shape and style. Finec -very fine and both rare being intact. (2)

Ex Patrick J.O'Rourke Collection.

They have one pan suspended from an unequal ivory arm, and a brass, lead or metal weight for counterbalance. A load is put on the pan and then the weight is moved a long the arm until the scale is balanced. These scales are usually found inside a wooden box, with the distinctive shape of a fish or violin (as in the above examples). These scales originated in China and were first mentioned in western literature in the 17th century, as Dotchin scales. They were used to weigh silver, gold, gems, and medicinal powders.

Estimate / sale price does not include buyer's premium (currently 22% including GST) which is added to hammer price. All bids are executed on the understanding that the Terms & Conditions of sale have been read and accepted. For information on grading and estimates please refer to the Buying at Auction advice.

Quick find

View a lot by number and sale.

Adjacent lots

  • Lot 1562  

    BURMA, standard weights of the Burmese kings, Beast series, opium weights, period D issued 19th ...

    Estimate $150

  • Lot 1563  

    BURMA, standard weights of the Burmese kings, Beast series, opium weights, period D issued 19th ...

    Estimate $150

  • Lot 1564   This lot

    CHINESE "OPIUM" SCALES, these are also a type of steelyard scales, described below, pan diameter ...

    Estimate $150

  • Lot 1565  

    PRIMITIVE MONEY, an interesting group including manillas (2) from West Africa, Atoni type (p.211 Opitz); ...

    Estimate $200

  • Lot 1566  

    PRIMITIVE MONEY, Africa, anklet money or baoule, a large cast semi circular raised central rim ...

    Estimate $100