Louis XVI Carved Giltwood Barometer

Circa 1800, gesso and gilt frame with painted cove molding, carved ribbon-tied musical instrument pediment and laurel leaf swag surround, the hand-painted oval dial with unusual mark of "Selon Toricelly" (Toricelli) behind glass, marked Par Carcano Ainé / Paris to center, with retailer label Spinelli & Mahier / Ingeniears - Opticiens/ 17 Rue des Drapiers / Havre.

39 1/2 x 29 in.

Private Collection, Chapel Hill, North Carolina

Some cracks and chips to carved areas, with later bracing and glued repairs; scattered loss to gilt and painted surfaces, some with painted retouch; dial with horizontal cracks and associated paint loss; not in working condition, lacking mercury and tubing.