A George III ormolu and mahogany stick barometer, George Adams, London, circa 1765

concealed tube, the silvered scale with dual verniers and signed G Adams, London, the trunk inset with a long Fahrenheit mercury thermometer, the silvered scale engraved with seasonal indications and signed Made by G Adams, in Fleet Street, London, Instrut. Maker to His Majesty, the plain mahogany case embellished with finely cast and chased ormolu mounts representing weather conditions and the seasons in the form of masks and trailing flowers and fruits, the cistern cover in the form of a shell

Apollo, February 1968.

Edwin Banfield, Barometers, Stick or Cistern Tube, Baros Books, 1985, pg. 64, Fig. 68.

Replaced glass tube contains mercury. Scales are in good condition but silvering is rather tarnished, thermometer contains mercury and is in very good condition. Case in good condition throughout.
"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."

George Adams (1709-1772), an important instrument maker, was apprenticed to James Parker in 1724 and turned over to Thomas Heath in 1726. He was Free of the Grocers' Company in 1733. From his premises in Fleet Street he became renowned for his microscopes, globes and barometers. He was made instrument maker to the Prince of Wales, later George III, an appointment that was continued after his death by his son, George Junior.

This barometer is remarkable for its most unusual mounts which so graphically portray weather conditions. A very similar barometer with added hygrometer is in the collection of the National Trust at Erddig Hall near Wrexham, North Wales.