Antique Chinese Hanging Balance Beam Hand Scale Artifact Art

I am selling an Antique Chinese Hanging Balance Beam Scale in used, working, and vintage condition. Discover a piece of history with this authentic antique Chinese hanging balance beam scale. This fascinating artifact, estimated to be over 100 years old, offers a glimpse into traditional Chinese commerce and craftsmanship. This scale is in remarkable vintage condition, fully functional, and ready to be used or displayed as a unique piece of antique art. This antique hanging scale is not only a functional tool but also a captivating conversation starter and a valuable collectible for anyone interested in history, traditional tools, or Chinese artifacts. Historical Significance & Design: * This type of scale, known as a dianche or steelyard, was historically used for weighing valuable goods, such as gold, silver, and traditional medicines. The scale consists of a beautifully preserved dark wooden beam, a hook for the item to be weighed, and a heavy sliding weight, all suspended by strings. The beam itself is a testament to meticulous craftsmanship, with its entire length covered in finely etched markings. These markings, or graduations, are set with small brass or silver pips and represent the units of measurement for different weight ranges. Functionality & Features: * Dual Suspension Hangers: The scale features two static suspension strings. The inner hanger is for weighing lighter items with greater precision, while the outer hanger is designed for heavier items. This dual system allowed for a wider range of measurements without needing multiple scales. * Intricate Markings: The markings on the beam are organized into octets and hexagrams, a traditional Chinese system of measurement. The scale's units are based on the historical Chinese tael and catty, which are closely related to modern measurements. One catty is approximately 500 grams, with a tael being roughly 1/16th of a catty (around 37.5 grams). The large lines likely correspond to these main units, while the smaller lines represent sub-units. * Sliding Weight: A heavy, tapered weight (210 g) is attached to a string and slides along the beam to find the point of balance, determining the item's weight. The weight itself shows signs of age and use, adding to the scale's authentic character. * Condition: The wooden beam is in excellent condition with no visible damage. The strings and the metal hook show signs of wear consistent with its age, preserving its historical integrity. Specifications: * Hanging Weight: 210 g * Wooden Beam Length: 13-1/4" Comes from a pet and smoke-free environment. Pickup in Mount Pleasant (NW Calgary)