This lot comprises three antique instruments: a German-made melodeon, a refracting marine telescope, and an industrial cage thermometer. The melodeon is an Imperial Accordeon Vox Humana model, constructed with an ebonised wood frame and decorative metal faceplates. The metal plates bear several stamped inscriptions: IMPERIAL ACCORDEON MADE IN GERMANY TRADE MARK with two anchor symbols; Imperial Challenge; PATENTED U.S. No 387054 12/8 1888; TUNED CONCERT NON-CORROSIVE MADE IN GERMANY; Vox Humana; GREAT BRITAIN 1/2 1889 No 1838; IN C MAJOR; PITCH; and HAMMERED REEDS MADE IN GERMANY. The instrument features paper and fabric bellows with a star-patterned lining and leather straps. The single-draw marine telescope features a main barrel covered in stitched brown leather with metal fittings, possibly nickel-plated brass. The industrial cage thermometer consists of a spirit-filled glass tube protected by a black-painted iron or steel cage frame. The internal wooden backing plate contains a temperature scale graduated from 10 to 230 degrees Fahrenheit, with specific notations for FREEZING, BLOOD HEAT, SPIRIT BOIL, and WATER BOIL.
Condition report:
The melodeon is in fair to poor antique condition. The ebonised wood shows significant scuffing and loss of finish. The bellows exhibit heavy wear, including splitting, surface loss, and fraying at the corners and edges. Metal components show oxidation and tarnish. The instrument is untested for musical functionality. The telescope is in good antique condition; the leather covering shows scuffs, scratches, and minor surface losses consistent with age. Metal fittings show a darkened patina. The thermometer metal frame shows heavy rust and oxidation throughout. The wooden scale is aged and darkened but remains legible.
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