Cased compass

1810-1860

Measurements

1-1/8 in x 3-5/8 in x 3-5/8 in

Materials

Mahogany, brass, steel, paper, glass

Credit Line

Historic Odessa Foundation, gift of H. Rodney Sharp

Accession Number

1959.3807

Condition Notes

The glass cover over the compass is broken in two pieces, one of which (in the northeast quadrant) is small.  The brass bezel holding the glass is also broken in one place (in the northwest quadrant).

Provenance

Ex coll. H. Rodney Sharp

Comments

The compass is set into a shallow mahogany case made of a thick square board with a thin hinged cover.  Two brass clasps secure the cover.  The hinge plates are broad and square, not typical of early fittings.  The printed compass paper is divided into four quadrants, each of which is marked with 90 degrees and eight compass headings.  A brass locking arm can fix the magnetic needle in place.