Plotting protractor

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This brass plotting protractor, used in a draughtsman's office, was made around 1850, probably by Gardner & Co., scientific instrument makers based in Glasgow.

The circular protractor has a pointer and an arm with a pricking point. Engraved by the arm is 'Gardner & Co. / 21 Buchanan St. Glasgow'.

The Gardner's family firm was established in 1799 by John Gardner, who had been James Watt's principal journeyman before setting up on his own. The firm became prolific makers of scientific instruments during the 19th century.

Record details

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• Online ID: 000-100-102-740-C
• Image Rights Holder: National Museums Scotland
• Project: National Museums Scotland
  Project description   View all records in project
• Ref: National Museums Scotland  T.1978.19
• Date: Around 1850
  c. 1850
  
• Material: Brass / mahogany box. Inscription: Gardner & Co. / 21 Buchanan St. Glasgow
  Protractor, circular/ box
  
• Dimensions: 134 mm D x 129 mm R of arm
  
• What: Protractor, circular/ box
  
• Subject: 19. MATHEMATICS (Departmental Classification)
  
• Who: E.K. Carmichael (Owner)
  Gardner and Co., 21 Buchanan Street, Glasgow (Maker)
  
• Where: Scotland, Lanarkshire, Glasgow
  
• Event:
• Description: Brass circular plotting protractor, in a fitted box, signed by Gardner and Co. of Glasgow, c. 1850
  
• References:
  • For drawing instruments in general, see Hambly, Maga. Drawing Instruments 1580-1980. London: 1988. 
• Translations:
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