Bow Caliper

Date1750-1850

MediumIron

DimensionsOverall: Length 8 11/16 × Depth 3/8 in (22 × 1cm); Width (min): 4 (10.1cm); Width (max): 11 3/16 (28.4cm)

Credit LineMuseum Purchase

Object number1968-540

DescriptionSimple caliper with two curved, tapered, and pointed arms, joined at the top with a rivetted pin.Label TextCalipers didn’t need to be as complicated as the professionally made ones imported from England. This blacksmith-made American example is simple, yet perfectly functional. By crossing the tips, it could be used to gauge inside dimensions of openings like mortices and pipes.