Bow Caliper

Date1750-1850

MediumIron

DimensionsLength closed: 8 3/4" Width closed: 5"

Credit LineMuseum Purchase

Object number1968-540

DescriptionSimple caliper with two curved, tapered, and pointed arms, joined at the top with a rivetted pin.
Label TextCalipers didn’t need to be as complicated as the professionally made ones imported from England. This blacksmith-made American example is simple, yet perfectly functional. By crossing the tips, it could be used to gauge inside dimensions of openings like mortices and pipes.