https://veryrarebrass.com Wed, 22 Jul 2026 16:53:51 +0000 en-US hourly 1 https://wordpress.org/?v=4.1.1 https://veryrarebrass.com/very-rare-revolutionary-era-french-drafting-instrument-set-bourjaunaux-c-1798/ https://veryrarebrass.com/very-rare-revolutionary-era-french-drafting-instrument-set-bourjaunaux-c-1798/#comments Wed, 22 Jul 2026 16:53:51 +0000 https://veryrarebrass.com/very-rare-revolutionary-era-french-drafting-instrument-set-bourjaunaux-c-1798/
















Antiques & Uncommon Treasure. RARE Revolutionary Era French Mathematical Instrument Set, Bourjaunaux, c. 65, between the Pont Neuf and rue de Harlay, Paris. The original printed trade label remains intact inside the lid, firmly situating the firm within the historic scientific instrument quarter of the Île de la Cité. The engraved scales include the early “Mètre, ” placing the ensemble securely after the adoption of the metric system in 1795 and within the transitional decade of Revolutionary and early Consulate France. The engraving style, hinge construction, and proportional scale layout are entirely consistent with high-quality Parisian production of the period. The RARE pieces include Folding plumb square; tripod; brass protractor, also known as a demi-rapporteur; sector, and various plus-plus unique 18th century engraved finest quality tools. This is a true professional engineer’s kit, not a student drawing case. Nothing missing in the fitted and expansive set. The set includes a finely engraved brass sector with proportional scales marked Parties Égales, Polygones, and related geometric divisions; a full beam compass with extension; proportional dividers; bow compasses with pen fittings; large semicircular brass protractor (demi-rapporteur); folding and fixed rules; try-square; and the rare tripod support used to stabilize large-radius compass work. The presence of the tripod is especially telling, as it appears only in advanced architectural and military engineering sets intended for serious field or drafting-room work. The instruments retain original surfaces and deep untouched patina throughout, with consistent engraving style and construction. All components are present and original to the set. RARE tripod During this period, opticians along the Quai de l’Horloge commonly acted as retailers and commissioners, sourcing instruments from specialist brass workshops and assembling them under their shop name. Bourjaunaux is identified as “Opticien, ” reflecting this commercial role. Comparable Revolutionary-era mathematical instruments are preserved in institutional collections including the Musée des Arts et Métiers, est c. 1794, Paris, and the Smithsonian National Museum of American History. What distinguishes this example is its completeness, the survival of the Bourjaunaux trade label, the metric transition engraving, and the inclusion of the tripod beam support – a feature absent from most surviving sets. The instruments retain original surfaces and a deep, undisturbed patina throughout. No components are missing. The set represents the material culture of Enlightenment geometry at the precise moment France formalized metric reform and institutionalized technical education under the École Polytechnique est. A rare and historically compelling Paris scientific instrument set from the golden age of French engineering, embodying both intellectual history and masterful brass craftsmanship. A comparable set, same era, is found in the Carnivalet Museum, Paris. Condition: Exceptional for age and type, with the exception of the original box which flaws we’ve photographed. It has been locked, key lost, then pried open, as you can see. In this type set,’cleaning’ instruments is not advised, and the patina remains. The set is complete, with no missing components, and retains original surfaces and a deep, undisturbed patina throughout. The survival of the Bourjaunaux trade label, the metric transition engraving, and the inclusion of the tripod support distinguish this example from the majority of surviving French drafting cases of the period. From antique French sterling silver, Georgian – Victorian jewelry, Limoges or Sevres or fine porcelain, enamels, tortoise shell boxes, etui, necessaire; portrait miniatures, fine European paintings & tapestries, or Hermes to Rolex and uncommon & thrilling items of museum quality. The array and inventory change often in our dynamic shop. In 1998 we made the move from high profile stores in Beverly Hills, CA and Dallas, TX, to an entirely internet based operation. With physical offices in both Utah and California, but no storefronts any longer, we want to thank our great customers for helping us have the courage to operate entirely online. Recently, we launched our own website with an attractive and easy to navigate style. Easy to find us with a QUICK SEARCH of our BUSINESS NAME. We’re looking forward to getting acquainted with you and to helping you complete (or add to) your’want’ list. It’s our job to tempt you mercilessly, and to treat you so well you’ll just love to come back to shop again. We appreciate our great customers! Thanks for making our’work’ so much fun! We have a great reputation we’ve worked hard to attain, and which we do all we can to keep & improve. Please expect response from us within 24 hours, (normally far less). Rarely, both of us travel together, and that may necessitate a slightly longer response time. You are very important! Our fine inventory is very important. And your ranking of our performance is also very important! We wish to keep our 4.9 – 5 star ratings in all categories. We always insure our items BUT, more importantly, pack them extremely well knowing that most are not replaceable. We always honor a 3-day return on our items, and guarantee them to be as described. Our listing images are always large and clear and portray the items we sell as accurately as possible. You May Also Like. Antique Georgian Shagreen Etui, Drafting Tool Kit, Architect or Cartography Box. Antique Georgian Shagreen Etui, Drafting Tools Kit, Architect, Cartography Box. Antique French Napoleon III Bronze Jewelry Casket, Box, Fab Portrait Miniature. Antique French Gilt Bronze Jewelry Casket, Box, Hand Painted Portrait Miniature. Antique Edwardian 14k Gold, Seed Pearl and 11mm x 8mm Facet-cut Amethyst. Antique Italian Grand Tour Micro Mosaic Paperweight Plaque with Roman Coliseum. Antique French Diadem, Crown, Tiara #2 in Huge Paste Gems, Made for a Wedding. Antique French Diadem, Crown, Tiara #1 in Huge Paste Gems, Made for a Wedding. Antique French 18k & Mother of Pearl Stiletto, Crochet Hook, Tambour, Seed Pearl. Antique French Palais Royal 18k & Kiln-fired Enamel Woven Hair Art Mourning Ring. Antique French Palais Royal Sewing Box, Piano Form, Pearl Tools, Scissors, Thimb. Georgian Portrait Miniature Lady in Bonnet, 15k Bracelet Clasp Mount is Pendant. English Portrait Miniature of Gentleman in Powdered Wig, 18k Gold Pendant Mount. Antique English Victorian Era Beaded Needlepoint Large Fire Screen, Lush Fringe. Antique Georgian Era 18th C 12k Gold and Persian Turquoise Etruscan Style Brooch. Antique Carved Mother of Pearl Figural Monture for 28 cm French Hand Fan, w Box. Add suggested items to your listings.

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Very Rare Brass Astrolabe – Historic Astronomical Instrument. This beautiful mini Islamic brass astrolabe is handcrafted in the historic city of Fez, Morocco, a place renowned for centuries of traditional metalworking and artisan craftsmanship. Inspired by one of the most important scientific instruments in the history of astronomy and celestial navigation, this miniature astrolabe reflects the rich heritage of the Islamic Golden Age. Carefully made from solid brass by skilled Moroccan artisans, this piece features finely engraved details and a warm antique-style finish that gives it the elegant look of a museum artifact in a compact size. Its intricate design makes it a striking decorative object that blends history, art, and science in one unique collectible. With a 10 cm (3.9 inch) diameter, this miniature astrolabe is the perfect size for display on a desk, bookshelf, or wall. It adds a distinctive historical touch to an office, study room, library, or living space. This piece is especially appealing for. Collectors of scientific instruments and historical replicas. Enthusiasts of Islamic art and heritage. Teachers, historians, and astronomy lovers. Anyone who appreciates authentic handmade craftsmanship. It also makes a unique and meaningful gift for students, scholars, travelers, or anyone fascinated by the history of science and exploration. Diameter: 10 cm (3.9 inches). Craftsmanship: Handmade by traditional artisans. Use: Decorative / Collectible Display. Each astrolabe is individually handcrafted, meaning slight variations in engraving, finish, and patina are natural and part of the charm of a handmade object. No two pieces are exactly alike. This item is a decorative replica inspired by historical astrolabes and is not intended for functional astronomical navigation. Your astrolabe will be carefully packaged to ensure it arrives safely and securely.

]]> https://veryrarebrass.com/very-rare-brass-astrolabe-historic-astronomical-instrument/feed/ 0 https://veryrarebrass.com/very-rare-antique-uniflow-steam-engine-pressure-scale-brass-instrument-in-box/ https://veryrarebrass.com/very-rare-antique-uniflow-steam-engine-pressure-scale-brass-instrument-in-box/#comments Sun, 05 Jul 2026 16:10:04 +0000 https://veryrarebrass.com/very-rare-antique-uniflow-steam-engine-pressure-scale-brass-instrument-in-box/























Exceptional antique steam engine pressure scale indicator used for testing and calibrating Uniflow steam engines – an advanced, high-efficiency design used in early 20th-century power plants and marine applications. This precision instrument was used to measure cylinder pressures during the compression (COMM) and expansion (EXPN) phases of the steam cycle. Complete and beautifully preserved, it remains housed in its original dovetailed hardwood case with brass hardware and custom-fitted compartments. Original Uniflow steam engine pressure scale instrument, c. Heavy solid brass and steel construction. Precision-engraved semi-circular scale, marked COMM (compression) and EXPN (expansion) in 1/16? Increments. 0242-326 stamped inside lid. Fully fitted hardwood case with dovetailed corners and brass hinges/latches. All components present and neatly secured in original recesses. Includes original 1973 Richard A. Superb condition throughout – well cared for and complete. Brass retains rich patina with crisp scale markings. Threads, rods, and fittings move smoothly. Hinges, finger joints, and brass latches tight and functional. Case interior clean and intact, showing quality joinery and original finish. Instrument length (assembled): approx. 16 × 6 1/2 × 3 inches. An exceptional, display-worthy example of early industrial instrumentation. Ideal for collectors of steam engines, Uniflow technology, or precision scientific instruments. Thank you for looking.

]]> https://veryrarebrass.com/very-rare-antique-uniflow-steam-engine-pressure-scale-brass-instrument-in-box/feed/ 0 https://veryrarebrass.com/the-brass-ark-demonstration-of-a-roman-buccina-instrument-band-music-trombone-trumpet-roman/ https://veryrarebrass.com/the-brass-ark-demonstration-of-a-roman-buccina-instrument-band-music-trombone-trumpet-roman/#comments Fri, 27 Feb 2026 16:40:33 +0000 https://veryrarebrass.com/the-brass-ark-demonstration-of-a-roman-buccina-instrument-band-music-trombone-trumpet-roman/ ]]> https://veryrarebrass.com/the-brass-ark-demonstration-of-a-roman-buccina-instrument-band-music-trombone-trumpet-roman/feed/ 0 https://veryrarebrass.com/vintage-angle-finder-protractor-brass-dial-very-rare-instrument/ https://veryrarebrass.com/vintage-angle-finder-protractor-brass-dial-very-rare-instrument/#comments Mon, 15 Dec 2025 13:53:00 +0000 https://veryrarebrass.com/vintage-angle-finder-protractor-brass-dial-very-rare-instrument/









There is no hallmark on this instrument but it has a feel of early Starrett or Brown and Sharpe. The arms are beveled steel 4 1/2 long. The dial is brass and is engraved with very delicate yet precise degrees marks. There are very fine knurls on all the moving parts.

]]> https://veryrarebrass.com/vintage-angle-finder-protractor-brass-dial-very-rare-instrument/feed/ 0 https://veryrarebrass.com/a-rare-trade-brass-instrument-repair/ https://veryrarebrass.com/a-rare-trade-brass-instrument-repair/#comments Sat, 07 Dec 2024 20:46:34 +0000 https://veryrarebrass.com/a-rare-trade-brass-instrument-repair/ ]]> https://veryrarebrass.com/a-rare-trade-brass-instrument-repair/feed/ 0 https://veryrarebrass.com/very-rare-vintage-sherwood-buffet-clarinet-musical-instrument-est-1946/ https://veryrarebrass.com/very-rare-vintage-sherwood-buffet-clarinet-musical-instrument-est-1946/#comments Sat, 16 Nov 2024 19:33:02 +0000 https://veryrarebrass.com/very-rare-vintage-sherwood-buffet-clarinet-musical-instrument-est-1946/








This vintage Buffet clarinet is a true gem for any musician. With its sleek design and exceptional tone, it’s sure to impress any clarinet player. Made in 1946, this instrument has a rich history that adds to its charm. The brand is well-known for producing high-quality wind and woodwind instruments, making this clarinet a reliable choice for any player. The instrument is perfect for those looking for a rare find and a unique sound. It’s ideal for use in a band or orchestra, adding a touch of vintage charm to any performance. Whether you’re a seasoned player or just starting out, this Buffet clarinet is sure to impress.

]]> https://veryrarebrass.com/very-rare-vintage-sherwood-buffet-clarinet-musical-instrument-est-1946/feed/ 0 https://veryrarebrass.com/one-super-rare-low-brass-instrument-a-valved-ophicleide-from-1830-with-leaky-valves-ytshorts/ https://veryrarebrass.com/one-super-rare-low-brass-instrument-a-valved-ophicleide-from-1830-with-leaky-valves-ytshorts/#comments Mon, 22 Jul 2024 07:32:36 +0000 https://veryrarebrass.com/one-super-rare-low-brass-instrument-a-valved-ophicleide-from-1830-with-leaky-valves-ytshorts/ ]]> https://veryrarebrass.com/one-super-rare-low-brass-instrument-a-valved-ophicleide-from-1830-with-leaky-valves-ytshorts/feed/ 0 https://veryrarebrass.com/1948-king-altonium-a-very-rare-instrument-in-very-good-condition/ https://veryrarebrass.com/1948-king-altonium-a-very-rare-instrument-in-very-good-condition/#comments Sat, 16 Mar 2024 07:25:12 +0000 https://veryrarebrass.com/1948-king-altonium-a-very-rare-instrument-in-very-good-condition/













Introducing a very rare musical instrument by King from 1948. This Altonium trumpet features a brass body and bell, and has a unique sound that will impress any musician. The instrument is in great shape and has been well-maintained over the years. Whether you are a collector or a performer, this Altonium is sure to be a prized addition to your collection. The King brand is known for their commitment to quality and craftsmanship, and this Altonium is no exception. Don’t miss out on this opportunity to own a piece of musical history. 1948 King Altonium / A very rare instrument in very good condition. This is a smaller version of the King Trombonium invented in the 1940’s by H. It was manufactured in 1948 and was the property of the State University of New York at Oswego. There are only two or three very minor dents but otherwise the instrument is in most excellent condition. In cleaning the Altonium I removed the old lacquer which should be replaced by a professional.

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The echo cornet has a mute chamber (or echo chamber) mounted to the side acting as a second bell when the fourth valve is pressed. The second bell has a sound similar to that of a Harmon mute and is typically used to play echo phrases, whereupon the player imitates the sound from the primary bell using the echo chamber.

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