two-axis spirit level and prisms
Datelate 19th-early 20th Century
Inventory Number1998-1-1155
ClassificationLevel
Subject
Maker
American
?
Cultural Region
Dimensionsbox: 3.8 × 16.7 × 12.5 cm (1 1/2 × 6 9/16 × 4 15/16 in.)
Material
Accessoriestwo glass prisms
DescriptionL-shaped metal spirit level with circular cross-section, coated with black enamel and having an oval glass window on each of its arms. At each end of the level is a silver-colored cap. The body of the level is fused to a metal base with a rectangular cross-section.
Two red lines mark the center of each glass window.
Accompanying the level are two glass prisms, each with a triangular cross-section and black paint along its edges.
Two red lines mark the center of each glass window.
Accompanying the level are two glass prisms, each with a triangular cross-section and black paint along its edges.
Signedunsigned
FunctionFor use in determining whether horizontal and vertical axes are level, simultaneously. Each axis is level when the bubble in the corresponding arm of the level is centered on the red lines.
The prisms to project the image of the bubbles to a less awkward viewing position.
The prisms to project the image of the bubbles to a less awkward viewing position.
Adie & Son
Date: circa 1850
Accessories: case; dust cap and sunshade; eyepiece
Object number: 5209
John Frederick Newman
Date: circa 1835
Accessories: mahogany case with brass hinges and hooks
Object number: 5239
Troughton & Simms
Date: circa 1910
Accessories: rectangular brown leather case with strap
Object number: 5116
Eugene Dietzgen Company
Date: circa 1925
Accessories: rectangular brown leather case
Object number: 2004-1-0349
Jean Lefebvre (II)
Date: circa 1740
Accessories: wooden display stand
Object number: 5217
Keuffel & Esser Company
Date: circa 1909
Accessories: mahogany case with brass corner protectors and lock; key; sunshade; dust cover; tripod (5147b)
Object number: 5147a
Buff & Berger
Date: circa 1880
Accessories: mahogany case; sunshade; screws; dust cover
Object number: 5143a
Peter & John Dollond
Date: 1780-1800
Accessories: mahogany box with brass hooks, hinges, and handle; tripod (see 5240b)
Object number: 5240a
Date: circa 1850
Accessories: pine case with brass hinges, hooks, and locks; small mahogany (?) box for spirit level; brass sun shade
Object number: 5222
Troughton & Simms
Date: circa 1830
Accessories: mahogany case with brass hooks and hinges, and felt protectors; additional eyepiece; magnifier; adjustable mirror; tripod mount; foot plate (5208b); tripod (5208b)
Object number: 5208a