AN EARLY 19TH-CENTURY DUTCH 'ROEDEN' (ROD) ALIDADE RULE BY BRENER, NAMUR
the brass bedplate secured to coromandel wood base, signed as per title and further inscribed Dubbe De Schaale / Generalitait Schaale van 160 Rýnlan dse Roeden with measurements and Gunter squares delineated along length, each end with hinged sights, each with two further hinged sights, contained within original felt-lined leather-covered box with securing hooks and handle -- 24in. (61cm.) diameter

At the date this was made, many variations of rod measurement co-existed. The Dutch roede was generally shorter than the English rod (16.5 ft) however the subdivisions, or voeten, varied dramatically from place to place and there could be anything between 7 and 21 voeten to a roede. Louis XIV invaded Namur 1692-5 when he built Namur castle. Napoleon re-occupied the area from 1794-1815 when he introduced his Code Napoleon unifying all these measurements and making instruments such as this lot obsolete.

Condition Report
The rule appears to be in fine overall condition; the box may have been restored, the lid has evidence of old worm damage. Lining appears original and the box seems robust.

We are pleased to provide you with a general report of the condition of this property. Since we are not professional conservators or restorers, we urge you to consult with a restorer or conservator of your choice who will be better able to provide a detailed, professional report. Prospective buyers should inspect each lot to satisfy themselves as to condition and must understand that any statement made by Charles Miller Ltd is merely a subjective, qualified opinion. Prospective buyers should also refer to any Important Notices regarding this sale, which are printed in the Sale Catalogue. NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD “AS IS” IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF BUSINESS PRINTED IN THE SALE CATALOGUE.