Description

PORTABLE DUTCH CORN SCALE OUTFIT, c. early 19th century. This “Amsterdam corn scale” outfit, when assembled, forms a brass cylinder 3-3/8″ in diameter and 7″ tall (8.5 x 18 cm). The two halves form the weighing vessels, one for corn and one for weights. The 5-1/2″ long cut steel balance beam, with its brass hangers, would be connected to the vessels by chain or cord running through the guides along the sides. The original turned brass weights, of traditional mushroom form, are also present, marked 5, 10, 20, 40, and 60. Condition is fine through-out noting cleaning residue in the crevices. The “Amsterdamse korenschaal” was used to determine the specific gravity of a grain sample, as a measure of its quality. The form was apparently used only in Holland. Examples are uncommon; we find one illustrated in Kisch (Fig. 21).