A gilt-bronze mounted tortoiseshell and brass inlaid boulle marquetry wheel barometer Paris, circa 1880

after the model by André-Charles Boulle, the 8-inch cartouche shaped dial with enamel weather indication plaques, silvered centre signed 'Carcany' and with wind direction indicators, alcohol thermometer with Reaumur scale, the rear of the case stamped 'Henry Dasson' 

Dial has hair cracks to two of the enamel panels. Tube replaced and contains some mercury but will require cleaning and re-filling, glass float and counter-float and tube lacking. Case in un-restored condition, some lifting and losses to brass edgings, old cracks to veneers, mounts generally good.
"In response to your inquiry, we are pleased to provide you with a general report of the condition of the property described above. All dimensions in catalogue descriptions are approximate. Condition reports may not specify mechanical replacements or imperfections to the movement, case, dial, pendulum, separate base(s) or dome. Watches in water-resistant cases have been opened to examine movements but no warranties are made that the watches are currently water-resistant. Please note that we do not guarantee the authenticity of any individual component parts, such as wheels, hands, crowns, crystals, screws, bracelets and leather bands, since subsequent repairs and restoration work may have resulted in the replacement of original parts. 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. Prospective buyers should also refer to any Important Notices regarding this sale, which are printed in the Sale Catalogue. In particular, please note it is the purchaser's responsibility to comply with any applicable import and export matters, particularly in relation to lots incorporating materials from endangered species.NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF BUSINESS PRINTED IN THE SALE CATALOGUE."

**Please be advised that bands made of materials derived from endangered or otherwise protected species (i.e. alligator and crocodile) are not sold with the watches and are for display purposes only. We reserve the right to remove these bands prior to shipping.

Important Notice regarding importation into the United States of Rolex watches
Sotheby's cannot arrange for the delivery of Rolex watches to the United States because U.S. laws restricts the import of Rolex watches. The buyer or a designated agent may collect the property in the country of sale."

Comparative Literature:
P. Hughes, The Wallace Collection catalogue of furniture, Vol I, London, 1996, pp. 330-333, no. 81 (F15).

This barometer is based upon an early 18th century example in the Wallace collection, illustrated by Hughes, op. cit.,, p. 331, no. 81, with variations in the marquetry and mounts. The example in the Wallace collection is listed as being by André-Charles Boulle(1642-1732), and has a satyr's mask above the dial and scrolling foliate marquetry on the base, with two gilt-bronze figures of Astronomy and Geometry seated on the shoulders of the case.  

Henry Dasson (1835-1896): For further information on Dasson see Lot 81.