Preliminary identification
Photo reference
2 uploaded photos
Overview
This is a handsome brass-cased marine-style compass housed in a polished mahogany-finished wooden presentation box with a green felt-lined lid. The compass face features an elegant, vintage-style blue and white compass rose adorned with a classic fleur-de-lis pointing North.
Story
For centuries, sailors relied on gimbaled compasses to stay level amidst violent ocean swells. This piece captures that romance of discovery, designed as a desk accessory to remind 20th-century dreamers of the open sea.
Maker / Origin
While unsigned, this piece belongs to the rich tradition of high-quality maritime reproduction giftware that flourished in the late 20th century. Workshops in East Asia and India specialized in recreating the heavy brass and rich wood aesthetics of 19th-century scientific instruments for modern libraries and offices.
Condition & Value
The wooden box and brass casing appear to be in very good condition with minimal scratching. The glass is clear, and the hinges are intact. Excellent condition helps it reach the higher end of the decorative market value. Value is driven primarily by decorative appeal and condition.
Full Research
Sold comps, value drivers, and venue guidance pulled from recent auction results.
Build on this identification
Layer in sold comps, value drivers, and venue guidance.
Comparable demand stays strongest where maker, originality, and venue confidence line up. Broader examples still trade, but the range tightens quickly when provenance, condition, or selling lane fit is missing.
Best Venue
Specialty auction or a focused dealer with buyers already in this lane.
Signed example with light edge wear and original frame.
Comparable format with stronger provenance and cleaner surface.
Smaller related piece with visible craquelure and trimmed margins.
Period match with softer condition and weaker subject matter.
Close market lane comp with similar material and presentation.