Scale - Brass, Metal - Rictus Letter Scale

Antique Rictus Letter Scale – D.R.P. Patent 384478 – Philipp Jakob Maul – Germany – ca. 1920–1930

Description
Original antique Rictus letter scale, manufactured in Germany by Philipp Jakob Maul of Hamburg, a well-known producer of office equipment and precision scales in the early 20th century.
This model bears the marking “Rictus – D.R.P.” together with the patent number 384478, referring to a German patent granted in 1921. The Rictus was one of the most popular letter scales used in offices and post rooms throughout Europe during the interwar period.

The scale features the characteristic arched dial with fine graduations and a long pointer, allowing accurate weighing of letters and small packages. The sturdy metal construction, combined with brass details and the original weighing plate, gives the piece a striking industrial aesthetic typical of early-20th-century office equipment.

Rictus scales were produced in several versions and sometimes used for advertising purposes, making them today attractive collectibles for enthusiasts of postal history and industrial design.
Features
• Brand / Model: Rictus
• Manufacturer: Philipp Jakob Maul
• Origin: Germany
• Patent: D.R.P. No. 384478 (1921)
• Period: ca. 1920–1930
• Material: lacquered metal body with brass elements
• Dial: graduated curved scale with pointer
• Function: letter / postal scale
• Top plate for weighing letters or small objects

Condition
Vintage condition with visible signs of age and use consistent with its period (patina, minor wear to paint and metal). Mechanism appears intact. Please refer to the photographs for a full impression of the condition.

Collectibility
Early office scales such as the Rictus are sought after for their distinctive industrial design and historical connection to postal and office work of the early 20th century.

The lot will be carefully packed and sent by insured and registered post with a track and trace number. It can also be collected in Amsterdam, The Netherlands