Object number
82/21
Description
This is a spring balance consisting of a ‘C’-shaped flat steel spring with a pointer at one end. The balance is calibrated in kilos with 0-14 kilos on one side and 10-100 kilos on the other. The spring has two hooks, one of which is larger than the other and has less leverage on the spring, and is therefore used for the heavier range on the gauge. The gauge has the word “GARANTIRT” and two crossed swords with the initials PKW inscribed upon it. This particular balance originally comes from Hungary, but was used here in England. According to J. T. Graham, this type of balance is known as the ‘Mancur balance’ and was very popular with farmers in North America and Europe from about the mid 19th century. The Mancur went out of use after about 1890, being unacceptable for trade use, and is never found bearing an inspector’s stamp.
Physical description
1 spring balance: steel; brass; good condition.
Archival history
Institute of Agricultural History handwritten catalogue form – ‘Standard museum name // (balance) SPRING BALANCE // Accession number // 82/21 // Classification // MARKETING // Negative number // 60/14254 // Acquisition method // gift // ... // Description // Spring balance consisting of a ‘C’-shaped flat steel spring with a pointer at one end. The pointer moves over a crescent shaped brass gauge, calibrated in kils. – 0-14 kils. on one side, and 10-100 kils on the other. The spring has two hooks, one is larger than the other and has less leverage on the spring, and is therefore used for the heavier range on the gauge. The gauge also has “GARANTIRT” and two crossed swords with the initials PKW inscribed upon it. // Dimensions // length – 28.5 cms. // Associated information // This particular balance originally comes from Hungary, but was used here. // This type of balance is known as the ‘Mancur balance’ which was very popular with farmers in N. America + Europe from about the mid C19... The Mancur went out of use after about 1890, being unacceptable for trade use, and is never found bearing an inspector’s stamp. (ref.) // References // J. T. Graham ‘Scales and balances’ Shire 1981 p. 31-32 // see also 69/208.’
Production place
Hungary
Object name
Material
Dimensions
Associated subject
External document
- L:\MERL\Objects\JISC 2012\60 series negatives\60_141254.tif - High resolution image
