An Antique Ellipsograph, Likely Late 19th C.
Attached to cast iron base, includes box!

Now here’s a rare find! This very old ellipsograph is an early all-in-one system. The adjustable drafting tool is hooked into a cast iron plate and is spring loaded for easy up-and-down motion. A pincer-like device holds your drafting medium in place. The cast iron base and your nib are protected by a lead plate underneath. A second, used lead plate is also included.

This piece includes its handmade box for storage.

This ellipsograph comes from an estate that had likely more than a hobbyist’s interest in astronomy. Pieces there ranged from the late 1800s to the mid-century. This appeared to be the oldest piece in the collection. This piece neither has any identifying markings nor an outright comparable on an internet search. Based on materials and construction, this piece was likely made anywhere from the mid-19^th Century through to the early 20^th Century, with my guess to the former rather than the latter.

Condition:

This piece is in VERY GOOD, WORKING condition! The handle displays an old fix by welding that does not affect the use or precision of the device. The device has moderate surface wear and some of the indexes have worn down or off. Otherwise, spring and pincer mechanisms function as they should and the ellipsograph spins freely.

Box has some wear and the latch does not work properly, but is otherwise in excellent condition. The box was likely made separately in the mid-20th century, as the previous owner of the ellipsograph was also a woodworker.

Measurements (approx):

Box dimensions: 11 ½ by 13 ½ by 6 in

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