Antique Victorian Carved Oak Aneroid Banjo Barometer and Thermometer, 1890

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Turned finials, dentil moulding, and classical architectural elements define this substantial English banjo wall barometer. The cresting is formed with … Read more Turned finials, dentil moulding, and classical architectural elements define this substantial English banjo wall barometer. The cresting is formed with a stepped dentil cornice surmounted by carved acanthus palmettes and a central turned acorn finial. Below the pediment, two prominent turned and fluted columns with carved volute capitals frame the vertical thermometer housing, giving the upper portion of the case the structured appearance of a classical temple facade. Crafted from solid oak, the case displays prominent grain and ray figuring across its mellow brown polished surfaces. The central thermometer sits protected behind a pane of heavy bevelled glass set within a moulded rectangular frame. Its white ceramic register plate is inscribed with twin vertical scales for both Fahrenheit and Centigrade, picked out in crisp black graduations with red numbering marking key ten-degree intervals. Neat brass retaining brackets secure the thermometer tube firmly against the porcelain backing. Directly below this architectural section, the throat of the case steps outward with relief-carved foliate swags that transition cleanly into the circular drum. The primary aneroid barometer dial is set within a heavy, polished brass bezel holding a bevelled glass lens. The white porcelain dial face features a detailed central starburst motif encircled by imperial barometric inch calibrations from 26 to 31 inches. Traditional weather forecasts—Stormy, Rain, Change, Fair, and Very Dry—are inscribed in Gothic script with red initial lettering, supplemented by directional wind markers. Atmospheric pressure changes are indicated by a blued steel pointer, paired with an adjustable brass recording index hand. Elaborate hand carving extends around the dial perimeter and lower terminal, incorporating acanthus scrolls, flanking side ears, and a low-relief floral patera mounted on the shaped base apron. Originating in England circa 1890, this commanding instrument measures approximately 103.5 cm in total height by 35.5 cm across its widest point. Both the aneroid movement and the upper thermometer appear well preserved, creating an impressive functional wall instrument designed for a grand hall, study, or traditional living room. See less