A rare George III mahogany angle barometer by John Whitehurst of Derby 1801

glazed engraved scale signed Whitehurst, Derby 1801, crossbanded case with square section finial and urn cistern cover, distressed



 

Chatsworth Inventory 1818, p. 29 in his Grace's Dressing Room 'An upright barometer, a Horizontal Do and Thermometer by Whitehurst'

 

Prospective purchasers must inspect, in need of complete restoration, cistern missing, extensive losses to veneers, cistern cover incomplete and damaged.
"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. Prospective buyers should also refer to any Important Notices regarding this sale, which are printed in the Sale Catalogue.
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."

This may be the angle barometer that appears in the watercolour, With-Drawing Chamber, Hardwick, painted by William Henry Hunt, in 1822 and illustrated here.

John Whitehurst(II) (1761-1834) was the nephew of John Whitehurst, FRS (1713-1788) and continued to make the distinctive angle barometers produced by his uncle. Both men were clockmakers as well as barometer makers and supplied numerous items to Chatsworth from their workshops at 22 Irongate, Derby. Also see lot 80.

The 6^th Duke also employed Whitehurst on a number of occasions both for making instruments and cleaning his clocks.  In 1824 for instance they invoiced him for £15. 14s. 6d. for work at Chatsworth.