"18th Century Compass In Iron And Bronze"
Beautiful measuring instrument composed of two iron arms articulated by a chiseled and engraved bronze mount. The decoration around the tightening screw represents a radiant rosette, a solar motif laden with symbolism in the 18th century: light, knowledge and geometric perfection. The arrowheads engraved on the arms recall the notion of direction and orientation. Beyond its practical function as a tool for architects, engineers or carpenters, this compass illustrates the value placed on geometry and measurement, sciences considered as the foundations of order and harmony. In the journeyman and Masonic tradition, the compass is also the emblem of knowledge and mastery, a symbol of the spirit that measures, regulates and orders.