Dotchins. Small wooden boxes shaped like guitars with long necks, containing quills marked with scales from which metal dishes are suspended with string.

ABDNP:200030a, 200030b, 200030c, 200030d

4 different sets of balances. Chinese balances in bamboo carrying cases known as Dotchins. They were used in the Chinese market place for weighing gold currency that consisted of irregular pieces stamped with their purity; violin-shaped wooden case with brass pan attached to string attached to ivory measuring pole. Chinese symbol on one side; sliding bamboo fastener

1780-1820

Physical Object