Torricellian barometer

British, probably London

Not on view

Hermes, the Greek god of commerce and patron of weights and measures, was known to the Romans as Mercury. His image on this barometer is appropriate for an instrument to measure changes in air pressure. It doubles as an allusion to the column of mercury by which the measurement is made. The glass tube is a modern replacement.

Torricellian barometer, Walnut, with floral marquetry, veneered on oak; brass; glass; mercury, British, probably London

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Torricellian barometer, Walnut, with floral marquetry, veneered on oak; brass; glass; mercury, British, probably London
Torricellian barometer, Walnut, with floral marquetry, veneered on oak; brass; glass; mercury, British, probably London
Torricellian barometer, Walnut, with floral marquetry, veneered on oak; brass; glass; mercury, British, probably London

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