Bronze handle,cross whatever....

[Westfront]

Found this nice piece today and have no clue where to start. Talking about the big piece on top.

 

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[OWK]

I would wager that it is the center post for a scale (a balance)

 

[Westfront]

I would wager that it is the center post for a scale (a balance)

There is an exact round hole on top, a scale would had a more elongated hole or a slot.

 

[OWK]

There is an exact round hole on top, a scale would had a more elongated hole or a slot.

I don't think it was a scale of the "hanging plate" variety.

I think the two nipples on the side of post are the bearings on which the scale arm was balanced. The scale arm would have been a long arm, with a rectangular hole in the middle that slid down over your post to rest on the bearing surfaces.

 

[Breezie]

How long is it? Is it hollow? Depending on the size and whether it is hollow or not, it looks more decorative; perhaps part of a gas lamp.


Breezie

 

[Westfront]

I don't think it was a scale of the "hanging plate" variety.

I think the two nipples on the side of post are the bearings on which the scale arm was balanced. The scale arm would have been a long arm, with a rectangular hole in the middle that slid down over your post to rest on the bearing surfaces.

Possible. I made some detail pics. Really looks like grooves for something to rest on at the side extensions.

How long is it? Is it hollow? Depending on the size and whether it is hollow or not, it looks more decorative; perhaps part of a gas lamp.


Breezie

Hi Breezie! Added a ruler on the pics. It's metric, converted we talk about 7 1/2" long, massive, side posts mounted with an iron pin, upper hole has rounded rim and no signs of wear. The mounting surface is slightly arched and in the middle is th broken stud visible.