GIUSEPPE ORIGO ROME Mercury barometer with veneered case and gilt bronze decorations. In the lower part, the glass cruet is set in a richly decorated frame. In the central part there is an alcohol thermometer, at the top is the barometric graduated scale with its nonius.The top is garnished with various decorations among which is the coat of arms of Pope Pius VII (Barnaba Niccolò Maria Luigi Chiaramonti 1742-1823). 1815/1825 ca. (h 120,5 cm) (minor defects)   Marquis Giuseppe Origo (1782-1833), formerly an instructor and commander of the Rome Fire Department, completed his studies at the Collegio Romano and worked in chemistry, physics and mechanics. Among his many projects was the invention and application (for the Fire Department) of a fireproof suit made of asbestos. His skills led him to set up a production of barometers of which there is a detailed explanation in "Miscellanea of useful productions in the fine arts and sciences compiled by Gio Batta Cipriani senese. Rome 1808". This publication describes a model of "portable barometer" whose technical construction is very similar to the exemplar proposed here. It is important to note that the portable barometer indicated in 1808, due to its characteristics, was used more for scientific purposes than for decorative purposes, and the case described was devoid of superfluous decorations. The specimen proposed, however, represents a fine example of excellent synthesis between technique and applied art. The papal coat of arms may suggest an important commission for this object. It should be remembered that the Marquis Origo, during his career, was appointed Secret Waiter of His Holiness in 1816 by Pius VII.

Estimate € 2,500 - 3,000

Sold € 3,300