&w=3840&q=75)
&w=3840&q=75)
&w=3840&q=75)
&w=3840&q=75)
&w=3840&q=75)
&w=3840&q=75)
&w=3840&q=75)
&w=3840&q=75)
made of brass. It consists of a fixed semicircle graduated in degrees, at the centre of which is a compass under glass set within a circle engraved with an interlaced laurel pattern, supported by two winged dragons facing each other. On the semicircle is a fixed alidade with (removable) pinnules and a spirit level. Above this is another alidade, movable about the central axis, with pinnules, engraved with the inscription “Arçenal / Real do / Exercito” (translation: Royal Army Arsenal). Above this is a sighting telescope centred on the centre of the movable alidade; the telescope can be tilted along a graduated semicircle. The centre of the instrument (beneath the telescope’s base) is richly engraved with the royal coat of arms of Portugal within a rocaille cartouche. Below is a fixing point.
Portugal, late 18th century or early 19th century.
Height (telescope horizontal): 21.5 cm - Width: 37.2 cm - Depth: 21.5 cm
(Visible damage and losses, on a fitted moulded wooden base)
Originally owned by the Royal Portuguese Army Arsenal, this rare instrument is designed to measure great distances, some of which are inaccessible. In particular, it enables the creation of urban maps by combining several measurements obtained through triangulation. The finely engraved and openwork dragons on the base echo the supports of the Portuguese royal coat of arms, which is also engraved, reaffirming the official provenance of this exceptional object.