L. & A. Boulade Frères, Lyon – c. 1887 - Surveyor's compass - Brass - 1850-1900






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An antique French cylindrical surveying compass by L. & A. Boulade Frères of Lyon, dating from 1850–1900 and made of brass, dark metal and glass.
Description from the seller
Antique French Surveyor’s Cylindrical Compass by L. & A. Boulade Frères, Lyon – ca. 1887–1895
In excellent condition – No reserve.
A fascinating late-19th-century French surveying instrument: an antique cylindrical compass manufactured by L. & A. Boulade Frères, Ingénieurs Opticiens, Lyon, France, dating to approximately 1887.
This distinctive instrument features a beautifully crafted polished brass cylindrical housing with a graduated 360-degree compass scale, magnetic needle and multiple viewing apertures. The compass is mounted on an adjustable brass and dark metal support, complete with its original mechanical adjustment controls and substantial circular base.
The instrument combines precision engineering with elegant industrial craftsmanship. Its cylindrical construction and carefully engraved graduations reflect the technical sophistication of French optical and surveying instruments of the late 19th century.
The compass has been tested and is functional. An exceptional collector's piece, equally appealing to collectors of antique scientific instruments, surveying equipment and historical optical apparatus.
Details / Specifications
Manufacturer: L. & A. Boulade Frères, Ingénieurs Opticiens, Lyon, France
Period: Approximately 1887
Origin: France
Type: Cylindrical surveying compass
Material: Brass, dark metal and glass
Construction: Cylindrical housing with graduated 360° scale
Mount: Adjustable stand with circular base
Dimensions: Approx. 27 x 7 x 7 cm (h x w x d)
Weight: Approx. 1.85 kg
Condition: Excellent antique condition, with age-related wear, surface marks and patina consistent with its age.
Functionality: Tested and functional.
A rare and highly decorative example of 19th-century French precision instrument making, offered without reserve.
Seller's Story
Antique French Surveyor’s Cylindrical Compass by L. & A. Boulade Frères, Lyon – ca. 1887–1895
In excellent condition – No reserve.
A fascinating late-19th-century French surveying instrument: an antique cylindrical compass manufactured by L. & A. Boulade Frères, Ingénieurs Opticiens, Lyon, France, dating to approximately 1887.
This distinctive instrument features a beautifully crafted polished brass cylindrical housing with a graduated 360-degree compass scale, magnetic needle and multiple viewing apertures. The compass is mounted on an adjustable brass and dark metal support, complete with its original mechanical adjustment controls and substantial circular base.
The instrument combines precision engineering with elegant industrial craftsmanship. Its cylindrical construction and carefully engraved graduations reflect the technical sophistication of French optical and surveying instruments of the late 19th century.
The compass has been tested and is functional. An exceptional collector's piece, equally appealing to collectors of antique scientific instruments, surveying equipment and historical optical apparatus.
Details / Specifications
Manufacturer: L. & A. Boulade Frères, Ingénieurs Opticiens, Lyon, France
Period: Approximately 1887
Origin: France
Type: Cylindrical surveying compass
Material: Brass, dark metal and glass
Construction: Cylindrical housing with graduated 360° scale
Mount: Adjustable stand with circular base
Dimensions: Approx. 27 x 7 x 7 cm (h x w x d)
Weight: Approx. 1.85 kg
Condition: Excellent antique condition, with age-related wear, surface marks and patina consistent with its age.
Functionality: Tested and functional.
A rare and highly decorative example of 19th-century French precision instrument making, offered without reserve.
