George III Mahogany wall Mounted Hydrometer
AssociatedAssociated with
Charles Lunan
(1760 - 1809)
Datelate 18th Century
Object NameHydrometer
Mediummahogany, glass, metal
ClassificationsMetrology
Dimensions75 × 20 × 11.5cm
AcquisitionPurchased in 2015 with assistance from the National Fund for Acquisitions.
LocationView by Appointment - Aberdeen Treasure Hub
Object numberABDMS094922
About MeTwo glass vessels with two glass tubes above connected by vacuum pump, with adjustable sample stage, the silvered dial marked for alcohol and water, with adjustable vernier, contained within a bowfronted case with solid line engraved door and removable prediment and folding base. This is an extremely unusual piece demonstrating skill and diversity of its maker, Charles Lunan.Charles Lunan is considered the foremost clock and scientific instrument maker in Scotland for his period. He produced a prolific number of clocks in his own right and his work was known for its ingenuity and the accuracy of execution in the mechanism. Born in 1760, he was admitted to the Trade of Hammermen in 1779, and was elected a Deacon of the same in 1795. Most of his clocks date around the latter half of the 18th century. He is also associated with Patrick Copland, professor of natural philosophy at Marischal College, working with him to make the City’s standard measure for oats and beer around 1811.
Aberdeen Art Gallery & Museums also holds a set of five measures made by Lunan in 1811.
November 1920
