French Antique Brass Assaying Scales

This unusual set of scales, or balance, is designed for a travelling Assayer. The mechanism can be dismantled and packed into the wooden box. The drawer also has a compartment to hold the weights which range from 50grammes down to 0.2grammes, each with an official French authentication stamp. Used to ascertain an accurate weight of precious metals or gemstones and thus their value. Or perhaps by an apothecary for measuring doses of drugs. Scales 26cm tall x 28cm wide. Box 30cm x 15cm x 6cm deep.