Money Changer's Scales By Jean Robert. Lyon, Dated 1686. France, 17th Century.

This small balance is finely forged from iron. Traces of faded inscriptions are visible on the lid, but the date 1686 is still legible. Inside, the inscription reads: "Jean Robert, rue Chalamon, near La Mort qui Trompe, Lyon, July 4, 1686." The bronze weights are stamped with different hallmarks: royal and municipal. They are probably from different periods, as the hallmark with the royal heads appears to be earlier, dating to the beginning of the 17th century. The bronze pans are also hallmarked, bearing the mark IP (read JP) of Jean Pingard, who must also have made some weights. In the 18th century, another craftsman affixed a label over the original signature, completely obscuring the valuable text. We have removed it but kept it, as it is part of the history of this small balance. There are some missing pieces and deterioration of the wood, but the overall condition is good. No restoration has been carried out. A triple suspension cord remains. 193x72x25mm. Another classic scale and a damaged brass scale are added.