Box of compasses and writing utensils, 2nd half s. XIX. XIX.

Box of compasses and writing implements. Europe, second half of the 19th century. Rosewood, brass and metal.
Refined mixed box for technical drawing and writing, made of elegant rosewood with satin finish and brass cartouche engraved with the name "Christian Bradt", possibly its first owner. The set preserves its original structure on two levels: the upper tray holds various compasses in gilded brass and steel, as well as adapters, points and articulated elements; while the lower level, compartmentalized, stores writing accessories such as pencils, plumb bobs, erasers and dry ink tablets. Interior lined in burgundy velvet.
The compass instruments feature a handcrafted design that predates industrial standardization, with turned finishes, hand rivets and minimal but elegant decorative details. The combination of technical function and writing elements suggests that this box belonged to a draftsman, surveyor or engineer trained in the academic tradition of the 19th century.

It shows wear from use, minor flaws in the interior lining and general patina. The key is missing.

Measurements of the closed case: 4.5 × 21.5 × 13.5 cm (4.5 × 21.5 × 13.5 × 13.5 cm).

The compass and writing boxes of this typology represent a moment of transition between artisanal and pre-industrial production in Europe. They are unique pieces, where each instrument was calibrated manually and each set responded to the professional profile of its owner. The presence of the engraved name adds documentary and collector value, reinforcing the biographical character of this box as an object of daily and intellectual use. A remarkable example of the material culture of technical drawing and projective thinking of the 19th century.