S08-056. English, 3rd quarter 18th century unsigned, but similar to one signed by Benjamin Martin. Made of ebony with lacquered brass fittings, the longest outside arm is 29" long x 1 1/8" wide x 3/16" thick and the shorter arm joined to it is 13 3/4" long x 3/4" wide x 3/16" thick, each with 1/2" wide inlayed ivory ratio scales. There are 3 ivory casters, 1 fixed sleeve and 2 adjustable sleeves (on the arms with the ivory ratio scales), and 3 cord loops. The case contains the original tracer stylus, pencil holder, and heavy pivot weight. This attractive ebony & ivory pantograph is in fine overall condition. The original 30 1/4" long x 4 1/4" wide x 4" tall hand dovetailed mahogany case, is in very good overall condition. See page 118 in Howard Dawes new book "Instruments of the Imagination - A history of drawing instruments in Britain 1600-1850" for a full page color photograph of a similar ebony & ivory pantograph by Benjamin Martin.
