Weights, nested

Object Details

Description (Brief): Nested weights were primarily used by merchants to measure coins. Four examples of nested cup weights are found within the Squibb Apothecary Collection, all of which were manufactured in Nuremberg. This set was used in France as indicated by the adjuster's stamps on the bottom of the cups. The total weight of the set is 16 French Livres, or 32 French Marcs. The house lid has a split V, 3 arm design common to weight sets made in Nuremberg. The two outer arms of the V are made of sea dogs or dolphins, and the hinge arm resembles a sea horse with two heads. Mermaids with their hands on their hips support the handle. (Handle Missing) The outer house has a series of stamps imprinted upon the circular patterns. The copper-master's mark, a bell, is stamped 1 x upon the lid. Other stamps or marks include a number of Fleurs-de-lis, as well as a crown and a star. Both stamps are said to be indicative of the type used by French adjusters. The French spelling of Mars is also found on the cup.
Location: Currently not on view

Credit Line: Gift of American Pharmaceutical Association and Bristol-Myers Squibb Company

1650-1750

Physical Description: metal (overall material)
Measurements: overall: 15.5 cm x 14.5 cm x 11.5 cm; 6 1/8 in x 5 11/16 in x 4 1/2 in

Related Publication: Danforth, Ellen Zak. A Catalog of Nested Cup Weights in the Edward Streeter Collection of Weights and Measures.; Houben, Gerard M.M.. 200 Years of Nested Cup Weights; Kisch, Bruno. Scales and Weights, A Historical Outline; Urdang, George and Ferdinand William Nitardy. The Squibb Ancient Pharmacy: A Catalogue of the Collection

National Museum of American History

GUID (Link to Original Record): https://n2t.net/ark:/65665/ng49ca746a8-965e-704b-e053-15f76fa0b4fa