Weighing scales

The set includes two types of scales. In one variety, the item to be weighed is counterbalanced with weights of a determined weight, which are added or subtracted until the needle (pointer) stands vertical. This type includes the pan scale, based on symmetry of weight, and the two beam balances, where weights are moved along a graduated bar; the further from the fulcrum, the more weight they can support. The other two are precision scales. They have no counterweight; instead the pointer is moved across a graduated arc by gravity. In one case, the object is placed directly above; in the other, it is hung from a hook, forcing the needle in the opposite direction. The latter was manufactured by Henry Baers in Zurich (Switzerland).

Scales are used to symbolise justice, the act of weighing up the case for and against an argument. Hence it is also a metaphor of the weighing of souls to determine whether they should be sent to heaven or hell.

There have been many very different systems of weights and measures in different historical periods and above all in different geographical locations. Sometimes, the same names might be used for different measures in different places. The metric (decimal) system came into widespread use from 1875, and as a result, units of weight have replaced former units of capacity (the bushel, the gallon, etc.).

All the pieces are from the Provincial Government of Gipuzkoa’s J. Etxeberria collection.

Bibliography:

Leizaola, Fermín de. Burdina: Burdingintza eta forjaketa tradizionala : [Gipuzkoako Foru Aldundiaren Kultur Departamentuak Antolatutako Erakusketa] = Hierro : Ferrería y Forja Tradicional : [exposición...]. [Donostia = San Sebastián] : Diputación Foral de Guipúzcoa, Departamento de Cultura, Educación, Deportes y Turismo, 1989. 71-72.