Decorative Arts, Scales, Brass Balance, Miniature, 20th Century (Sold)

Brass Scales
South American or Continental: Mid 20th Century
Brass, wood base
7 inches high; 7.75 inches wide, 2 inches depth

Brass balance pan scales, of typical form, on a rectangular wooden base. The scales are made of intricate cut brass, with numerous scroll patterns and incorporating gear motifs. A brass identification plate “Allievi”  —  probably the designer or manufacturer — is affixed to the front edge of the base. The surname Allievi is generally Italian or Spanish; the scales were purchased from an antique dealer in Buenos Aires, Argentina. They are an ideal small size for shelf or desk decoration in a library and would make an excellent gift as scales of justice for a lawyer.