Hello, this item is a Chinese portable balance scale set with associated figural bronze weights, dating to the late Qing period, approximately late 19th to early 20th century, rather than the 18th century as stated. The tapered wooden case with sliding cover houses a calibrated beam scale with brass fittings and suspension threads, a format traditionally used by merchants, apothecaries, and traders to measure small quantities of precious materials such as silver, gold, medicines, and sometimes opium. The scale itself appears complete, with its brass pan and internal measuring beam intact. Accompanying the scale are three cast bronze figural weights modeled as elephants and a mythical creature, decorative forms commonly produced in southern China and Burma for trade weights during this period. These weights were often paired with portable scales for commercial use, though they were also sold independently as symbolic objects. The carving and patination are consistent with late Qing export or regional workshop production rather than earlier imperial manufacture, and the wooden case shows age-appropriate wear but modern tool finishing, confirming a late 19th century origin.

Condition is good overall, with surface wear, patina to the bronze weights, and handling marks to the wooden case consistent with age and use, but no major losses visible. Comparable late Qing balance scales with cases typically sell between USD 250 and USD 500 depending on completeness, while decorative bronze trade weights of this type generally bring USD 100 to USD 250 each, depending on size and casting quality. As a complete group, including the scale and three figural weights, current secondary market value is realistically in the range of USD 450 to USD 700.