A distinctive Victorian pocket compass set in a mahogany case, with an attractive paper sunburst dial, divided into 90 degree quadrants and displaying 32 cardinal and inter-cardinal points.

Dating to around 1870, it has a glass crystal retained by a brass bezel, and a stylish blued steel needle, impressed with ‘N’ & ‘S’ gold letters still clearly visible, despite some light age oxidation.

As with many wood cased compasses of the period this is unsigned, but the use of concealed hinges attaching the lid to the base, was a feature used predominantly by Francis Barker, and it’s very likely this compass was made by Barker.

This is a nice clean compass, with both crystal and dial in good condition and a transit lock that activates on lid closure. A classic 19th century antique, it measures 65mm x 65mm x 18mm and the lid is fastened with an elegant 7 shaped brass clasp.