A very unusual Georgian pocket compass with inset bubble level and brass protractor to lid c1820

Mahogany-cased pocket compass having 2¼” paper dial, 32-wind quadrant rose displaying cardinals, intercardinals, false points and bypoints, fleur de lys indicating north. Flat blued needle marked ’N’ and ’S’ in gold on brass crown pivot. Original flat glass held in brass bezel. The mahogany case with triangular pinned brass hinges, transit lock, and twin swinging catches, with spirit bubble level set to case to the side of the compass. The lid housing brass protractor, marked 0°-90°-0° to front, and 0°-90° to verso, both divided to 1°, the verso with twin mounting lugs, the protractor held in position by swivelling catch. The compass case with brass plate to side with two fixing points for the protractor lugs.

Condition: In very good condition, the needle with almost all of its original blued finish and the gold for N and S, swinging freely, finding north easily, the lid-activated transit lock working correctly. The dial intact, the paper bright with a few signs of aging, the original glass displaying slight marks and casting signs. The mahogany travel case in good sound condition, a few age and use related marks, closing securely, the bottom rear right corner bent. The spirit level and brass protractor in very good condition.

Comments: Despite intensive efforts, we have been unable to find a similar piece, and presume this was a private special order item for a surveyor or similar. The protractor fits snugly into its mounting, enabling angles to be calculated.

A very unusual and good working example in original condition from the late Georgian period. One for the compass collector or a special gift.