Graphometer

Signed "Cartailier - Avignon", circa 1770-1780, brass and glass. Large and beautiful graphometer executed by Cartailier, active in the 18th century, constructor of graphometers, constructed an astronomical quarter circle kept at the college of the Avignon observatory executed under the direction of the astronomer Morand, director of this observatory. Double graduation 0 - 180° / 180 - 0° fine engraved ornamental decoration.
Pinnule alidade missing, compass glass has been replaced. Very beautiful instrument with a very unusual signature. As is.
References: Complete course of optics, translated from the English of Robert Smith, containing the theory, practice & uses of this science..., Volume 1 (second volume), 1767, p. 532, fig. 648: Astronomical quarter circle. Marcelin & Fromanger, Dictionary of French manufacturers..., 2021, p. 38 (Sotheby's London, sale of 13.11.1961 / Venice Observatory.)