Weighing and measuring machine by John Joseph Merlin, London, 1760-1803
Weighing and measuring machine, c1800, by Merlin, English
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John Joseph Merlin (1735-1803) was a Dutch inventor. He learned his trade as a mathematical instrument maker in Paris. Merlin moved to England in 1760. He founded his mathematical instrument-making business in 1773. Merlin invented this weighing machine.
He also set up “Merlin’s Mechanical Museum”. This featured instruments such as weighing machines, clocks and even a device allowing blind people to play cards. His museum was popular in London as a place of amusement and instruction. Merlin, something of an entrepreneur, is also believed to have popularised roller skates.
- Measurements:
-
overall: 1142 mm x 303 mm x 361 mm, 6 kg
- Materials:
- brass (copper, zinc alloy) , iron and mahogany (wood)
- Object Number:
- A602026/1
- type:
- weighing machine
- Image ©
- The Board of Trustees of the Science Museum