TitleGraphometer Date1660-1730About this objectThis graphometer is a surveying instrument designed to measure horizontal angles using a semicircle dial scale and sighting vanes, with an integrated compass for orientation. It features a pair of sights mounted on the alidade, each equipped with a vernier scale for fine readings. The frame is decorated with floral engravings, and the compass is marked with a fleur-de-lis to indicate north.
As the inscription indicates, this graphometer was made by Michael Butterfield (c.1635–1724), an English-born maker of mathematical and optical devices who operated a workshop in the Faubourg Saint-Germain district of Paris from around 1677 until his death. Butterfield was renowned for his distinctive sundials, one of which is held in the La Perouse Museum collection (Object No. 88.62) Object No.88.5CreatorButterfield, MichaelInscriptions & marksButterfield à Paris'DimensionsH:150
W:202
D:98 mmPlace madeFranceMaterialBrassLeatherSourceLa Perouse MuseumOn displayNoTypeMuseum objectsOrganisations (Detailed entries)La Perouse Museum (La Perouse, N.S.W.)ThemesEuropean arrivalsScience and communication
