Brass snake scale
This is what I believe a brass scale. It weighs about 2.6 lbs. its 12 inches high, 9 inches wide, including the hanging dishes. There is place for 4 weights, on is missing. it has a snake head and fish in the brass. I have googled and only Maco Braga scales come up, but there are differences on the body and where the scales hang.
Unknown
Other
Maybe
Hi Genny,
Thank you for contacting Mearto with your appraisal inquiry.
I do not think this is a Maco Braga scale but it is a very nice mid-19th century (probably cast) brass balance scale. Because no-one uses these today, and the weight set is incomplete, it has a largely decorative value and, if it were to be sold at auction, would be catalogued as:
A Continental cast-brass balance scale
mid 19th century
The ornately cast pillar with snake's-head support and fish-form arms, two pans on triple chains, the shaped base with spaces for 4 weights, one lacking.
12 inches high, 9 inches wide
$500-800*
*represents a fair-market value for auction purposes; retail or asking price may vary.
Please let us know if you have additional items to appraise, and thank you for using Mearto.
We generally recommend that people leave items in "as-is" condition. Not only does this prevent you from potentially losing any money on restoration but potential buyers may have a different aesthetic than you and its better to leave any cleaning or restoration to them.
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Alternatively, now that you know what this is worth you can proactively reach out to auction houses near you to see if they are interested in selling this on your behalf.
Let us know if you have any other questions.
Would it be insane to put it up on ebay? I have a shop online... or is that not a great idea?
Not insane but you might want to ask '$800 or best offer' and see how much you can get. Even with the missing weight it should be worth at least $400-500 and it's easier to come down from a high price than negotiate up once you've put a price on the table. Good luck!
HI! Im not sure if this file is still open and you can answer my questions but I have made another appraisal and the person on my appraisal has not answered me, Mearto service has not answered my emails either. I was just trying to get someone to get in touch with me. ITs been over a week since my appraisal purchase. Thanks!!
HI Genny,
I've asked that the other appraiser for your painting be reminded to finish it.
Delia
Thank you so much. I am looking to sell this piece. I wouldn't even know where to begin! Does it need it be cleaned or leave it as is?