A LOUIS XVI ORMOLU-MOUNTED, PEWTER-INLAID EBONY, EBONIZED AND MAHOGANY THERMOMETER AND BAROMETER the barometer dated 1780 and stamped M. Carlin, the thermometer dated 1781, both signed MAGNY

With fine construction cracks at corners of ebonized frames. Barometer wiht age crack on reverse, thermometer with some old worm damage on reverse. Ormolu and brass with oxidation and some surface dirt. Scattered minor abrasions to ebonized frames. Very fine cracks to mahogany. In good condition.
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.

The inclusion of English scales and words on this lot appears to be an indication of the capacity of the French, or at least of the maker of these particular pieces, to manufacture scientific instruments at a time when competition from Britain was severe and when scientific instruments from Britain were imported into France in massive quantities.

ALEXIS MAGNY (1712-1807)

A protégé of the Duc de Chaulnes, Alexis Magny was one of the most versatile and respected scientists and mechanical engineers of the Louis XV and Louis XVI periods. Besides scientific instruments such as thermometers, barometers and microscopes, he also worked as a clock maker. After presenting his work to the Royal Academy of Sciences in 1734, he became increasingly popular with members of the court and the high aristocracy who were interested in science. His most famous work is a tilting microscope, now preserved in the collection of the Château de Versailles, that he presented to Stanisław Leszczyński, father-in-law of Louis XV, in 1751.