Commerce balance Napoleon III brass marble 19th century

Beautiful French trade balance from the second half of the 19th century, in the Napoléon III style. It consists of two large circular polished brass trays, mounted on ball feet in brass, resting on a veined white marble slab. The rectangular base is made of ebonised wood, lacquered black, with natural wood fillets forming framed panels. At the front, a circular brass porthole with glass allows for viewing the indicator needle — the balance has a capacity of 5 kilos. Authenticity: one of the trays bears a circular engraved inscription on the reverse corresponding to an official French metrological verification hallmark, with the mention "WEIGHTS AND MEASURES". This stamp attests to its regulated commercial use and its antiquity. The whole piece shows a patina consistent with its age: slight traces of oxidation on the locking elements and dirt on the marble, in general condition as is, ideal for restoration or for decorative display as it is. Dimensions: H. 19 cm — W. 49 cm — D. 18 cm — Weight: 25 kg.