Also known as a surveyor's compass, the circumfrentor was used both for measuring angles and, in conjunction with a measuring chain, plotting fields. Though superseded by the theodolite in Europe starting in the 1800s, they remained popular in America and other developing areas for longer. Measures 15 1/4" long and 6 1/2" wide, with a pair of 6 7/8" tall sighting arms, two spirit levels in a "T" formation and a silver finished central housing for the magnetic compass, marked "Edmund Draper/ Philada 394/ Warranted" with the circumference numbered. Edmund Draper was in business from 1833 until 1882. On the underside is a fine adjustment knob, lockout screws for the compass and arms, and a socket for the staff. Included is a brass cover plate, 44" tall staff with an adjustable ball mount, locking collar and an iron reinforced tip, and a surveyor's chain.

Very good. The brass components show a fine mixed aged patina with mild handling marks. One of the spirit levels has lost its fluid, and the compass housing has a ring of fresh sealant. The staff shows wear appropriate to age, with the tip appearing to be an old field addition, and mild rust is present on the chain.