A Louis XIV ormolu-mounted and tortoiseshell-veneered barometer and thermometer circa 1700, signed Bunten a Paris

Both with minor casting cracks to ormolu; not extensive and inherent to the piece. Ormolu otherwise in good condition and without noticeable oxidation, rubbing or surface dirt. Tortoiseshell with fine age and construction cracks and minor restorations throughtout. One with an approx. 1in. by 0.5in. loss to tortoiseshell and backing by glass sphere originally containing mercury. Brass with some oxidation. One tube removed but present and with break. In good condition.
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.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING CONDITION OF A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD "AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF SALE PRINTED IN THE CATALOGUE.

The marchand-mercier Claude-Francois Julliot is known to have kept a barometer and a thermometer of almost identical model in stock. The inventory prepared following his wife's death on November 5, 1777 includes "663... un baromètre et un thermomètre fond d'écaille rouge à bande de cuirre lisse sur Lacquelle les degrés sont tracés; garnis d'un cadre à groupe d'enfants du haut et à culot à rinceau par bas... 1001." A barometer and thermometer of this model was sold from the Collection of Lily and Edmond J. Safra, Sotheby's New York, October 20-21, 2011, lot 982. A related barometer, previously in the collection of M. and Mme. Henri Rabeau, was sold Sotheby's Monaco, June 17-18, 1989, lot 846.