Antique Nautical Twin Dolphin American Dry Card Compass Display

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Antique Nautical Twin Dolphin American Dry Card Compass Display

About the Item

Shown is an interesting antique compass made by the American instrument maker, D. Baker of Boston. It has been mounted in an elaborate presentation, suspended between two vintage, brass dolphins which are cast in a style reminiscent of the U.S. Navy Submarine Officer's Warfare device of WW II. It may be displayed as a focal point in many settings.

The Dolphins used with this display have only been seen once before with a WW II U.S. Navy pelorus displayed in the same fashion as shown below. We again researched all possible sources for the genesis of the dolphins, and have not been successful.

Baker was born in New Bedford, MA in 1792. Baker is listed in Webster's and also in the Whaleman's list which shows he was a dealer in nautical instruments. Later, he worked with a partner, Thomas Hooper at 54 Ann St., in Boston, MA.

Dimensions:
Diameter: 8.25 in (20.96 cm)
Place of Origin:
United States
Period:
19th Century
Date of Manufacture:
Ca 1880
Condition:
The black arrow in Image 2 points to one of the small holes, both of the same size which have been filled and colored to match. See Condition Report below. The stand has three screw holes drilled through the base which have been filled and painted. The arrow in Image 2 points to the largest of the three. There also is one scratch in the edge on each side. In addition, the adjustable screws holding compass in gimbal do not recess fully. Ten out of sixteen screws holding the bezel to the bowl are missing. These can not be seen, and everything is secure. The compass card's paint is faded. There are the usual minor marks of age. The compass has been recently polished and lacquered. Considering its service and use at sea, the compass is in very good, usable, condition and is of high quality. There are some minor tears in the paper, and a patch of paper is missing on the disk upon which the imprint rests all atesting to its age and former use. Copyright 2012 by Land And Sea Collection™, All Rights Reserved.
Seller Location:
Palm City, FL
Reference Number:
1stDibs: U120320925750