An unusual mahogany stick barometer, Jesse Ramsden, London circa 1790

with concealed tube, the glazed engraved ivory scale with vernier and signed Ramsden, London, the mercury thermometer with fahrenheit and temperature compensation scales, the case with swan neck cresting and brass finial, well figured trunk and half-turned cistern with ivory float needle

Tube contains mercury, ivory scales a little stained, old repairs to cresting, moulding around glazing possibly replaced, old scuffs, marks and scratches throughout.
"In response to your inquiry, we are pleased to provide you with a general report of the condition of the property described above. Since we are not professional conservators or restorers, we urge you to consult with a restorer or conservator of your choice who will be better able to provide a detailed, professional report. Prospective buyers should inspect each lot to satisfy themselves as to condition and must understand that any statement made by Sotheby's is merely a subjective, qualified opinion. Prospective buyers should also refer to any Important Notices regarding this sale, which are printed in the Sale Catalogue.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF BUSINESS PRINTED IN THE SALE CATALOGUE."

Jesse Ramesden (1731-1800), was born in Salterhebble, Yorkshire. In 1756 he was apprenticed to Mark Burton a mathematical instrument maker in the Strand, London and initially worked for other makers such as Peter Dollond and George Adams. In 1766 he married Sarah Dollond, sister of Peter and, in 1768, set up his own business in Haymarket. He was an innovative maker and is credited with inventing a dividing engine for the accurate division of scales. He had several apprentices including William Cary, and he employed Matthew Berge who succeeded him on his retirement . He died shorly after retiring in 1800. This barometer is unusual at this date in incorporating ivory scales and the temperature compensation scale to allow for the expansion of mercury.