Former owner description:
Norwich, United Kingdom

"Old set of brass and ivory beam scales, in good original condition, and complete with their original wooden case.
The scales measure 10 ½ inches (270mm) long along the beam and have a 3 ½ inch (90mm) diameter circular brass pan and balance indicator at one end, a cotton suspension loop, and a travelling brass counter weight upon which is engraved the number 5.
Along the ivory beam are two different, dot punched, calibrated scales. The whole scale fits neatly into a fitted, carved wooden, case with compartments for the pan, beam and weight, and a hinged lid..
This is a great set of early beam scales and it would make a fine addition to any collection"

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Asian or Opium Scales

This scales were in use for Medicals, Spice , Gems and Gold.
Maybe a few times also for OPIUM.
The scales have the same function like a steelyard.
The beam is normal made of ivory, the weight and pan are made of brass - sometimes silver. The rare scales use a two-in-one weight and some of them offer a nice decoration.

How to use:
You hold the beam by his handle cord, the weight you have to slide to the point of balance.
On the beam you see some measure marks to define the weight of the load
sold