Lot 1564

Description

Chinese "Opium" Scales, these are also a type of steelyard scales, described below, pan diameter 35mm, as stored with a wooden box in the shape of a fish or vioin, lot includes a weight for counterbalance; another similar 47mm diameter pan of similar shape and style. Finec -very fine and both rare being intact. (2)

Ex Patrick J.O'Rourke Collection.

They have one pan suspended from an unequal ivory arm, and a brass, lead or metal weight for counterbalance. A load is put on the pan and then the weight is moved a long the arm until the scale is balanced. These scales are usually found inside a wooden box, with the distinctive shape of a fish or violin (as in the above examples). These scales originated in China and were first mentioned in western literature in the 17th century, as Dotchin scales. They were used to weigh silver, gold, gems, and medicinal powders.