Nested weights

Date1740-1790

MediumBrass and copper

Dimensions1: 1 11/16" x 2 5/8" 2: 15/16" x 1 13/16" 3: 11/16" x 1 7/16" 4: 1/2" x 1 3/16" 5: 3/8" x 15/16"

Credit LineGift of Beatrix T. Rumford

Object number2009-159,1-5

Label TextCompact and easy to carry, sets of nested weights were popular throughout the colonial period. Each weight normally equals the sum of those that fit inside it, and half that of the next largest weight. Such sets were used by merchants and tradesmen alike, and were commonly employed by goldsmiths, money-changers and apothecaries.

These nested weights were owned by David Deshler (1711-1792). Deshler, born in Heidelberg, Germany, immigrated to Philadelphia before 1730 and became a successful merchant of the city. His Germantown residence still stands today. This set of weights descended in the Rumford branch of his family, and is Rumford catalog number 122.

For a discussion of similar weights see: R.F. Homer, "Nests of Weights," THE ANTIQUE COLLECTOR, 34 (1963), pp. 26-28.

MarkingsStamped into the top of lid are an "F" and an "r," in addition to a mark of a scale surmounted by "M" and "R."

Each cup is successively marked on the interior bottom (from largest to smallest):
1: "16"
2: "8"
3: "4"
4: "2"
5: "1"
ProvenanceThese nested weights were owned by David Deshler (1711-1792). Deshler, born in Heidelberg, Germany, immigrated to Philadelphia before 1730 and became a successful merchant of the city. His Germantown residence still stands today. This set of weights descended in the Rumford branch of his family, and is Rumford catalog number 122.