Brass Theodolite

Description

Gilt brass theodolite, with central compass alidade both fixed and movable; signed at the bottom 'Baradelle a Paris'. Baradelle was … more Gilt brass theodolite, with central compass alidade both fixed and movable; signed at the bottom 'Baradelle a Paris'. Baradelle was a French family of makers of scientific instruments; their production is coastituita from that of the father Jean-Louis-Jacques (active from 1752 to 1794) and the son Nicholas Eloi (active from 1774 to 1814), both signing indistinctly with the surname only.
Also present is the base in painted and gilded wood with phytomorphic motifs.
A similar theodolite belongs to the English collections of the Science Museum Group. This piece is attributed to the mentioned designer/maker. It has no attribution mark and no
official proof of authenticity,
however it is well documented in design history. I take full responsibility for any authenticity



issues arising from misattribution less