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Plumb & Level Indicator (Inclinometer)

Offered by: David A. Schorsch - Eileen M. Smiles Fine Americana

Description
Plumb & Level Indicator (Inclinometer)

New York, circa 1846

Mahogany, steel, brass, engraved printing on paper.

Height 9 ½ inches, width 9 ½ inches, depth 1 inch.

Printed inscription: “PLUMB & LEVEL INDICATOR.” and “MANUFACTURED BY R. PORTER NEW-YORK.” With water staining typical of these devices and some minor paper losses.

Among American folk artists, Rufus Porter is considered a true “renaissance man”—a scientist, artist, inventor, muralist, dance instructor, musician, educator, journalist, and publisher. He edited New York Mechanic and American Mechanic and most famously founded Scientific American in 1845. In his Plumb and Level Indicator Porter combined art and science in a device to measure the angle between a particular surface and a line that would be considered “level.” In addition to inventing it, Porter also provided the background illustration (in the form of an engraving) depicting two tradesmen putting the device to use, shown resting on a stone wall. In the June 25, 1846 edition

More Information

Period:	19th Century
Condition:	Good.
Styles / Movements:	Traditional
Incollect Reference #:	753450

Dimensions

W.	9.5 in;	H.	9.5 in;	D.	1 in;
W.	24.13 cm;	H.	24.13 cm;	D.	2.54 cm;

Message from Seller:

David A. Schorsch and Eileen M. Smiles American Antiques is one of the world’s leading dealers and authorities in the field of American antiques and folk art, specializing in weathervanes, folk paintings, folk sculpture, formal and country furniture and Shaker design.