Preliminary identification
Photo reference
2 uploaded photos
Overview
This is a whimsical mid-century novelty weather instrument designed to measure humidity using a genuine organic material. Housed under a protective glass dome on a heavy brass base, it features a pointer mechanism connected to a textured, moisture-sensitive element resembling a cat's tongue.
Story
In post-war Germany, instrument makers combined precision engineering with playful design. This device relies on a natural, highly reactive organic material that expands and contracts with humidity, physically moving the pointer. It turned the mundane daily task of checking the weather into a tactile, living conversation piece.
Maker / Origin
While unsigned, this piece is highly characteristic of German novelty scientific instrument makers from the mid-20th century, such as Lufft or other specialized Black Forest workshops. These makers were famous for finding ingenious, often humorous ways to package serious meteorological technology for the home market.
Condition & Value
The brass base shows a lovely, authentic aged patina with minor surface oxidation. The glass dome is intact with no visible chips or cracks. The green felt on the underside shows light wear consistent with age. Excellent overall preservation, which helps maintain its value.
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.