Cased Liquid Compass for a Small Boat

Mid-19th century, marked Ritchie, Boston on interior bar, japanned tin case with beveled glass-fronted window, the side with small kerosene or whale oil lamp.

9.75 in.

Private Collection, Western North Carolina

With Christie's lot tag from an unknown sale; also, a Frank F. Sylvia Antiques, Nantucket, Massachusetts business card is present, an inscription on the back identifying the compass as follows: "Whaleboat Binnacle from whaleship 'Walter Scott' Edgartown First sailed 1836. From Stackpole Collection Nantucket."

Wear to case reveals underlying metal; some oxidation and verdigris; unknown if lamp works; overall fair condition.