Apothecary's balance, Europe, 1901-1930

Apothecary's balance, Europe, 1901-1930 Apothecary's, balance, early 20th century

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Science Museum Group
© The Board of Trustees of the Science Museum

Apothecary's, balance, early 20th century
Science Museum Group Collection
© The Board of Trustees of the Science Museum

Apothecary's balance, early 20th century

A balance is used to measure out ingredients for medical treatments. Accurately measuring out ingredients is vital to ensure the patient takes the correct dosage. Placing weights of known heaviness on one brass pan allowed ingredients to be measured accurately in the other. When the pans are balanced the lead indicator hangs straight.

The balance would have been used by a pharmacist or chemist.

Details

Category:
Pharmacy-ware
Collection:
Sir Henry Wellcome's Museum Collection
Object Number:
A602074
Materials:
whole, brass, knife edges, steel and stand, mahogany
Measurements:
overall: 600 mm x 560 mm x 290 mm,
type:
balance