A fine Scottish George III mahogany stick barometer, John Russell Falkirk, Circa 1800

The triangular pediment above an inlaid case with fluted half-columns, with circular pendant.  Signed Jn. Russell / Falkirk.

Good condition with case in good condition with only some small chips to the veneer of the frame. Oxidation and rubbing to ormolu mount capitals.
In response to your inquiry, we are pleased to provide you with a general report of the condition of the property described above. Since we are not professional conservators or restorers, we urge you to consult with a restorer or conservator of your choice who will be better able to provide a detailed, professional report. Prospective buyers should inspect each lot to satisfy themselves as to condition and must understand that any statement made by Sotheby's is merely a subjective qualified opinion.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING CONDITION OF A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD "AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF SALE PRINTED IN THE CATALOGUE.

John Russell was born circa 1745, the son of a blacksmith and was probably trained in his father's craft, however by his `ingenuity and industry' he became a fine maker of clocks, watches, musical boxes and barometers. He opened a shop at the top of Kirk Wynd , Falkirk circa 1770 where he built up a good reputation, so much so that he was appointed Watchmaker to the Prince of Wales and, after 1811 when the Regency was established, Watchmaker to his Royal Highness the Prince Regent. He seems to have concentrated on producing only two distinctive types of barometer, one of wheel form decorated with panels of verre églomisé, the other a stick barometer such as the present example which pre-dated the wheel barometer. The distinctive features being the design of the silvered plate, the Corinthian pilaster covering the tube and the oval cistern cover. Only very few examples of both types of barometer have been recorded.  John Russell died in 1817.  A very similar barometer sold at Sotheby's London, September 28, 2006, lot 203 (£20,400).

Cf. a similar barometer is illustrate Nicholas Goodison English Barometers 1680-1860 Antique Collectors' Club 1977, reprinted 1985 pgs 228-236