Swiss Pattern Folding Compass and Divider

The ends of this German silver instrument rotate at right angles to the legs. When the pointed ends of both legs are extended, the instrument works as a divider. The other side of one end has an adjustable pen point, and the other side of the other end has a holder, tightened by a metal ring, for a pencil lead. When one of these ends is extended, the instrument functions as a compass. The legs fold up inside themselves so the compass may be stored in a wooden case covered with black leather and lined with purple velvet. The instrument has no identifying marks. It is similar but not identical to a folding pocket compass sold for $5.00 (without a case) by W. & L. E. Gurley from at least 1903 to 1912.

Englishman David Napier (1790–1876) is credited with inventing the folded compass in 1848. This version improves on the design by putting all of the joints in the same plane and is known as the "Swiss pattern," although makers all over Europe made these instruments.

References: A Manual of the Principal Instruments . . . Manufactured by W. & L. E. Gurley, 37th ed. (Troy, N.Y., 1903), 309–310; A Manual of the Principal Instruments . . . Manufactured by W. & L. E. Gurley, 46th ed. (Troy, N.Y., 1912), 365–366; Maya Hambly, Drawing Instruments: 1580–1980 (London: Sotheby's Publications, 1988), 83–84.

Currently not on view