1800’s Carved Bone and Silk Tape Measure

Measures:  1.25” tall

A delicate rosette graces the top of this antique tape measure.  Flawlessly carved from top to bottom, this is surely one of a kind!  The bottom is threaded and comes off to reveal the silk tape measure inside.  There is a number “28” carved into the bottom as seen in the photo.  I don’t know if this indicates the year (1828) or the number of inches on the tape or something else entirely.  The top turns, I believe to wind the tape back in.  The tape has been wound back so far it is no longer coming through the opening in the side.  I have attempted to coax it back through the opening, but the silk is very fragile, so I decided to leave this task to the discretion of the buyer!  I believe with the right tools it could be done carefully.  A challenge well worth the reward!

*Tape measure only is included in sale, other items are my photo helpers :-)